17087, Richland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17087, Richland, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.58 percent of the residents in 17087 has some form of health insurance. 24.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.98 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 17087 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17087. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 424 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,852 health care providers accessible to residents in 17087, Richland, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Richland, PA (ZIP Code 17087)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Richland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17087), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment. The score will reflect the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients. In Richland, assessing primary care availability is paramount. We must investigate the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Furthermore, we need to consider the patient-to-physician ratio. A higher ratio could indicate increased wait times for appointments and potentially limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient, potentially impacting the thoroughness of screenings and follow-up care.

Richland's primary care landscape needs to be examined for its capacity to handle the initial stages of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes the availability of diagnostic tools like X-rays, CT scans, and access to specialists. The presence of established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is also critical. Are there clear, efficient systems for patients to be quickly referred for further evaluation if a suspicious finding is detected?

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care is essential. We must assess the practices within ZIP code 17087, identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening and early detection. This involves looking for practices that actively implement screening guidelines, educate patients about risk factors (smoking history, exposure to radon), and offer smoking cessation programs. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data and coordinate care are also highly valued.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Richland is a significant factor in our Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring of patients, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. We will assess the availability of telemedicine services for consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. Are local practices embracing telehealth to expand their reach and improve patient convenience?

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is, therefore, critical. We need to evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community and their willingness to work with cancer patients. Does the local healthcare system offer access to support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care for patients and their families? The presence of these resources significantly enhances the patient experience and improves overall outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Richland is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. We will compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 17087 with regional and national averages to assess the relative availability of healthcare providers.

The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening is another critical factor. We will assess whether local practices adhere to the recommendations of organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). This includes evaluating the availability of low-dose CT scans for eligible patients and the use of standardized protocols for follow-up care.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted importance of the factors discussed. A higher score indicates a more robust healthcare system, better equipped to address the needs of lung cancer patients. The score will be determined by considering the following: primary care availability and quality, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and adherence to screening guidelines.

The assessment of the practices within the ZIP code will include a review of their websites, patient reviews, and public health data. This will help identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care and patient-centered services. We will also look for practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and promote lung cancer awareness.

The presence of specialized cancer centers or hospitals within a reasonable distance of Richland is also an important consideration. Access to comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, is essential for optimal patient outcomes. We will assess the proximity of such facilities and the ease with which patients can access them.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that may influence access to care. This includes assessing the availability of health insurance, the affordability of healthcare services, and the presence of transportation options for patients. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure; it is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the score should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the availability of resources, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of best practices. The goal is to provide a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

The ultimate aim of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available in Richland, PA (ZIP Code 17087), specifically in the context of lung cancer care. This will empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and encourage the local healthcare system to continually improve its services.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape in Richland and beyond? Explore the power of data with CartoChrome maps! Discover geographic insights, analyze healthcare access, and gain a deeper understanding of your community.