17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.29 percent of the residents in 17075 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.26 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 17075 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17075. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 health care providers accessible to residents in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Newton Hamilton, PA (ZIP Code 17075)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care resources and accessibility within the Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17075) area. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to address lung cancer screening and initial diagnosis, and the availability of supporting services, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the overall quality of care. This score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. In Newton Hamilton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Determining this ratio requires an investigation into the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from medical directories and insurance provider networks, will be necessary to calculate this ratio accurately. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score, as it suggests potential challenges in accessing timely screenings and initial evaluations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and capabilities of the existing primary care practices are crucial. The analysis must investigate the practices' adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., those with a history of smoking). This includes assessing the availability of screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, and the processes for referring patients to specialists if abnormalities are detected. Practices with established screening protocols and strong referral networks would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

The analysis should also examine the adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices in Newton Hamilton. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can streamline the care process. Practices that embrace telemedicine and offer virtual consultations for lung cancer-related concerns would receive favorable consideration in the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources plays a vital role in supporting patients diagnosed with lung cancer. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health services is essential for coping with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany the disease. The analysis should investigate the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the Newton Hamilton area and the ease with which patients can access these services. Practices that actively integrate mental health support into their care plans would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Newton Hamilton, being a rural area, might face unique challenges in terms of access to specialists. The analysis must consider the proximity of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, to the ZIP code. The time it takes to travel to these specialists for consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment significantly impacts the patient experience. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the ease of access to these specialists.

Evaluating standout practices is essential. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care, evidenced by robust screening programs, patient education initiatives, and strong referral networks, will be crucial. These practices can serve as models for others in the area. The analysis should highlight these practices and their contributions to improving lung cancer care within Newton Hamilton.

The analysis must also consider the role of patient education and community outreach. Practices that actively educate patients about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and available resources contribute to early detection and improved outcomes. Community outreach programs, such as health fairs and informational sessions, can raise awareness and encourage individuals to seek timely medical attention. Practices that prioritize patient education and community engagement will be viewed favorably in the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of support groups and resources for patients and their families is another critical factor. These groups provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for individuals navigating the challenges of lung cancer. The analysis should investigate the presence of support groups, cancer centers, and other resources within or near Newton Hamilton. The availability of these resources will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Newton Hamilton, PA (ZIP Code 17075) is not a single number but rather a holistic assessment. It reflects the strength of the primary care infrastructure, the accessibility of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the quality of screening programs, and the commitment to patient education and community outreach. The score will be a qualitative evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing lung cancer care.

To visualize and better understand the geographical distribution of these resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping capabilities that allow for the visualization of healthcare data, enabling a clearer understanding of access to care within Newton Hamilton and the surrounding areas. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a spatial perspective on the healthcare landscape and to identify potential areas for improvement in lung cancer care.