17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.38 percent of the residents in 17246 has some form of health insurance. 43.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.86 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 17246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17246. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 17246, focusing on primary care availability in Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania. This score considers several factors relevant to lung cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting.

Pleasant Hall, a small community within ZIP code 17246, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare delivery. The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, considers the practical realities of a rural environment, where resources might be more limited than in urban areas. The score is not a definitive judgment but rather an assessment based on publicly available data and reasonable inferences.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. In assessing 17246, we must consider the potential for a lower physician density compared to more populated regions. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provides the baseline for this assessment. The analysis will consider the number of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and oncologists serving the area, compared to the estimated population of Pleasant Hall and the surrounding ZIP code.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care. This can be gauged by several factors. Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons is a significant indicator. Practices with CoC accreditation often adhere to rigorous standards for diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. Another key factor is the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, used for early lung cancer detection. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and nurses specializing in oncology, is also critical. These teams facilitate coordinated care and improve patient outcomes. Finally, the practice's participation in clinical trials, which provide access to cutting-edge treatments, is a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Pleasant Hall to access specialists and receive follow-up care without traveling long distances. The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the extent to which practices in 17246 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. This includes assessing the availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the practice's workflow. The adoption of telehealth technologies can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from specialist centers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the availability of mental health support for patients in 17246. This includes assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists in the community, and the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically for cancer patients. The integration of mental health services into cancer care is a crucial component of holistic patient care.

Specific examples of practices and resources within 17246 are difficult to pinpoint without more detailed information. However, the analysis will be based on publicly available data and reasonable inferences. For example, if a major hospital system serves the area, the analysis will consider whether that system has a dedicated cancer center, offers lung cancer screening programs, and provides access to specialists. If there are local community health centers, the analysis will assess their role in providing primary care and connecting patients with specialists.

The Lung Cancer Score for 17246 will also consider the availability of transportation services. Transportation can be a significant barrier to care for patients in rural areas, especially those undergoing treatment. The analysis will assess the availability of transportation assistance programs, such as those offered by local hospitals or community organizations.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education resources. Information about lung cancer screening, treatment options, and support services is crucial for patients. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and patient navigators, who can help patients understand their diagnosis and navigate the healthcare system.

In the absence of specific data, the Lung Cancer Score will be based on a combination of factors. A high score will be assigned to areas with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of accredited cancer centers, widespread telemedicine adoption, robust mental health support, and accessible patient education resources. A lower score will be assigned to areas with limited resources and access to care.

The final score will provide a general overview of the landscape of lung cancer care in 17246. It is important to remember that this is an assessment based on available information and that the actual quality of care may vary. The score is intended to be a starting point for further investigation and to highlight areas where improvements are needed. The analysis will strive to be as objective and informative as possible, acknowledging the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of healthcare resources and access in 17246 and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, hospital services, and other relevant data points. Visit CartoChrome.com to discover how mapping technology can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your community.