17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.55 percent of the residents in 17239 has some form of health insurance. 31.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.48 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 17239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17239. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,348 health care providers accessible to residents in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within the context of ZIP Code 17239, which we will assume to be a proxy for the general area, and the specific community of Neelyton, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers several critical factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements influencing the quality of care for individuals facing lung cancer and other health concerns.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, signifying more physicians per capita, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments, increased opportunities for preventative care, and more personalized attention. Determining the precise ratio for 17239 requires access to comprehensive, up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with physician directories. However, we can anticipate that rural areas often face challenges in maintaining favorable physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This scarcity can exacerbate the difficulties faced by individuals needing prompt diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of lung cancer. The impact is particularly acute for primary care, which serves as the gateway to specialized services.

Primary care availability in Neelyton presents a unique challenge. As a smaller community, Neelyton may have limited access to primary care physicians. This scarcity necessitates residents to travel to larger towns or cities for routine checkups, screenings, and initial evaluations of symptoms. This travel burden can be a significant obstacle for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options, potentially delaying the detection of lung cancer and other serious conditions. The absence of convenient primary care also diminishes the opportunity for early intervention and education regarding risk factors, such as smoking cessation programs.

Within the 17239 area, the presence of standout medical practices significantly influences the overall quality of care. Identifying these practices requires examining factors like physician qualifications, patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered. Some practices might specialize in oncology or pulmonology, offering advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options for lung cancer. Others may excel in primary care, providing comprehensive services and acting as effective referral sources for specialized care. The presence of these standout practices can create a hub of expertise, attracting skilled healthcare professionals and improving the health outcomes for the community.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing access to specialists. For individuals in 17239 and Neelyton, telemedicine can be especially valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health counseling. The extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care for individuals with lung cancer and other chronic conditions.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can bring significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential for providing support and helping patients cope with the challenges of their illness. Assessing the availability of mental health services in 17239 involves examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services to patients, including the acceptance of various insurance plans.

The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting is particularly beneficial. Primary care physicians can screen patients for mental health concerns and provide initial support, while also referring them to specialized mental health providers when necessary. This integrated approach can improve the early detection and treatment of mental health issues, leading to better overall outcomes for individuals with lung cancer.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in 17239 and Neelyton requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout medical practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. The specific challenges of rural healthcare, such as limited access to specialists and transportation barriers, must be considered. The presence of strong primary care services, coupled with telemedicine capabilities and robust mental health support, is critical for ensuring that individuals with lung cancer receive timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive care.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17239 and Neelyton, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visualize healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. By exploring CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.