17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 17090 has some form of health insurance. 40.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.95 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 17090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17090. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 988 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24,084 health care providers accessible to residents in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of lung cancer care accessibility within ZIP code 17090, encompassing Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This evaluation considers not only the availability of medical professionals but also the supporting infrastructure, including telemedicine capabilities and mental health resources, crucial for comprehensive patient care. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and offering insights for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the presence of qualified medical professionals. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, a general understanding can be gleaned from publicly available data. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provide data on physician distribution. Analyzing these sources, coupled with information from professional organizations like the American Medical Association, allows for an estimation of the primary care physician (PCP) and specialist density within the area. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for PCPs who often serve as the initial point of contact, can hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. Similarly, the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is paramount. Examining the concentration of these specialists within and around the ZIP code is essential.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality and reputation of medical practices are significant. Identifying standout practices requires research into patient reviews, peer recommendations, and the types of services offered. Practices with a strong track record of positive patient outcomes, advanced diagnostic capabilities (e.g., access to low-dose CT scans for early detection), and comprehensive treatment options (including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical expertise) should be highlighted. Furthermore, the presence of multidisciplinary teams, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff, often indicates a more holistic approach to care.

The integration of telemedicine is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Shermans Dale. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care remotely. Evaluating the adoption rate of telemedicine by local practices is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Assessing the presence of these resources within the community, or the ability of local practices to refer patients to such services, is essential. The integration of mental health support into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment adherence.

Primary care availability in Shermans Dale is a key factor. A robust primary care network ensures that patients have a readily accessible point of entry into the healthcare system. This includes assessing the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their availability for appointments, and their ability to provide preventative care, such as lung cancer screenings. A strong primary care foundation can facilitate early detection and timely referrals to specialists.

The analysis of lung cancer care in ZIP code 17090 reveals a complex picture. The availability of physicians, both primary care and specialists, is the starting point. The quality and reputation of medical practices are important. Telemedicine adoption, which is a key indicator of accessibility, is a crucial factor. The availability of mental health resources is also essential. Each element contributes to the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios requires a granular analysis of available data. Publicly available information can provide a baseline. Direct contact with local healthcare providers can offer more specific details. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is critical. The ratio of these specialists to the population of the ZIP code is a key indicator.

The identification of standout practices involves researching patient reviews, peer recommendations, and the services offered. Practices with a strong track record of positive patient outcomes, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and comprehensive treatment options should be highlighted. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and support staff, often indicates a more holistic approach to care.

Telemedicine adoption is a key indicator of accessibility. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support is important. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology is essential. The integration of mental health support into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment adherence.

Primary care availability is a key factor. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their availability for appointments, and their ability to provide preventative care, such as lung cancer screenings, is important. A strong primary care foundation can facilitate early detection and timely referrals to specialists.

To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice types, and the availability of support services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can visualize healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of accessibility and resource allocation within ZIP code 17090 and surrounding areas. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a comprehensive spatial perspective on lung cancer care accessibility.