17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.41 percent of the residents in 17214 has some form of health insurance. 59.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.54 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 17214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17214. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 314 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,096 health care providers accessible to residents in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17214 & Primary Care in Blue Ridge Summit

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly in the context of lung cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will focus on ZIP code 17214 (representing the general area) and the specific community of Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania, to assess the landscape of primary care availability and its potential impact on lung cancer outcomes. The core of this analysis will center around the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which play a critical role in early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection. This, in turn, is heavily reliant on accessible and proactive primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in 17214 is a crucial metric. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, later-stage diagnoses. This analysis will attempt to determine the approximate physician-to-patient ratio for the area, factoring in data from publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. It's important to acknowledge that this data is often generalized and can be influenced by factors like commuting patterns and the presence of specialized clinics.

Beyond simple numbers, the structure and operational efficiency of primary care practices in the area are critical. Are practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for appointments? Do they offer extended hours or weekend availability? These factors directly influence a patient’s ability to access care when needed. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly between PCPs and specialists are vital for coordinated care, especially crucial in lung cancer treatment, which often involves a multidisciplinary team.

Standout practices within 17214 and the surrounding areas should be identified. This includes practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in preventative screenings for lung cancer. This could involve practices that actively promote low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Identifying practices that have a strong track record of early detection and successful referrals to pulmonologists and oncologists will be a key element of this analysis.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Blue Ridge Summit. Its adoption can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in the area is critical. This includes evaluating whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments and medication management. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve the convenience of care, especially for those managing chronic conditions or undergoing treatment.

The mental health component of lung cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is crucial. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices, or through referral networks, is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology patients. Practices that proactively screen for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, and provide access to appropriate interventions, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

In the context of Blue Ridge Summit specifically, the analysis will focus on the availability of primary care services within the community. This includes identifying the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their practice locations, and their patient load. The proximity of these services to residents is a significant factor, particularly for elderly patients or those with limited transportation options. Furthermore, the analysis will assess the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonology and oncology, within a reasonable distance, as well as the ease with which patients can be referred to these specialists.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for this area will be a composite measure, taking into account the factors discussed above. It will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of primary care services in the region. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the operational efficiency of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score will also consider the proximity of specialized care and the ease of referral pathways.

The goal of this analysis is not only to assess the current state of healthcare accessibility but also to identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members about the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area. It can also highlight the need for additional resources, such as increased funding for primary care, expanded telemedicine capabilities, and enhanced mental health services.

The analysis will strive to identify any potential disparities in access to care, such as those related to socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity. It is crucial to ensure that all residents of the area have equal access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of their background. This includes addressing any barriers to care that may exist, such as language barriers, transportation difficulties, or lack of insurance coverage.

The data used for this analysis will be gathered from a variety of sources, including public health databases, healthcare provider directories, and patient surveys. The accuracy of the analysis will depend on the availability and reliability of this data. Every effort will be made to verify the information and to ensure that the analysis is as comprehensive and accurate as possible.

To visualize and further analyze the data, consider using a powerful mapping tool like CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and track trends over time. You can use CartoChrome maps to create interactive visualizations that allow you to explore the data in more detail and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17214 and the surrounding areas.