17233, Mc Connellsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17233, Mc Connellsburg, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.96 percent of the residents in 17233 has some form of health insurance. 49.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.00 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 17233 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17233. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,201 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,986 health care providers accessible to residents in 17233, Mc Connellsburg, Pennsylvania.

The task requires an assessment of lung cancer care quality within a very specific geographic area, focusing on physician resources and access to care, including mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17233, specifically concerning lung cancer care, and the broader primary care availability in McConnellsburg.

Assessing the quality of lung cancer care necessitates a multi-faceted approach, beginning with the fundamental availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). McConnellsburg's primary care landscape is the foundation upon which specialized cancer care is built. A robust primary care network acts as the first line of defense, responsible for early detection, screening referrals, and ongoing patient management. In the context of lung cancer, this means timely referrals for chest X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic procedures. Insufficient primary care resources can lead to delayed diagnoses, impacting patient outcomes significantly.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can result in longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a less thorough approach to preventative care. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 17233 and the surrounding McConnellsburg area requires investigation. Publicly available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and state medical boards can provide insights. Analyzing this data, alongside information from local hospitals and clinics, will paint a clearer picture of access to care.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines for high-risk individuals (current or former smokers). Practices that actively engage in patient education, smoking cessation programs, and coordinated care are more likely to improve patient outcomes. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also enhance access to care, especially in rural areas where physician shortages are common.

Once a diagnosis of lung cancer is confirmed, the patient's journey often involves a team of specialists. While this analysis focuses on the primary care foundation, understanding the availability of oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons within a reasonable distance is essential. Proximity to a comprehensive cancer center, equipped with advanced treatment options like radiation therapy and immunotherapy, is a significant advantage. The presence of support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and patient navigators, further enhances the patient experience and improves outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services remotely. The adoption rate of telemedicine within practices in ZIP code 17233 and the surrounding areas should be evaluated. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for consultations? Are patients able to access virtual appointments for follow-up care and medication management? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances for appointments.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is critical. Are mental health services integrated into the care provided by primary care practices and oncology centers? Do practices offer referrals to mental health specialists? The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide valuable emotional support for patients and their families.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also important. These practices may demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care, incorporating best practices, utilizing telemedicine, and providing comprehensive patient support. Researching the practices’ websites, reading patient reviews, and consulting with local healthcare professionals can help identify these high-performing providers. Factors to consider include the practice's adherence to screening guidelines, its use of technology, and its commitment to patient education and support.

Evaluating the availability of smoking cessation programs is also important. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a critical component of lung cancer prevention and treatment. Are primary care practices and hospitals offering smoking cessation programs? Do these programs include counseling, medication, and other support services? The availability of these resources can significantly improve the chances of patients successfully quitting smoking.

Furthermore, the availability of palliative care services is crucial. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, providing symptom management, emotional support, and assistance with advance care planning. Is palliative care available in the McConnellsburg area? Are patients referred to palliative care specialists early in their treatment journey? Palliative care can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with lung cancer, regardless of their stage of disease.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 17233 and the surrounding McConnellsburg area requires a detailed analysis of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. This assessment should also consider the availability of specialists, smoking cessation programs, and palliative care services.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape, including detailed maps of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, consider exploring the resources available through CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can visualize healthcare access and resources, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving healthcare delivery.