17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17730 has some form of health insurance. 78.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.57 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 17730 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17730. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,174 health care providers accessible to residents in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730)

This analysis assesses the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care within the Dewart, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17730) area, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer. This analysis does not represent medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs within a reasonable distance is therefore a critical indicator of overall healthcare quality. In Dewart, like many rural communities, physician-to-patient ratios can be a significant challenge. National averages often don't reflect local realities. A detailed investigation into the number of practicing PCPs within the 17730 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas that Dewart residents commonly access, is crucial. This includes assessing the types of practices – solo, group, hospital-affiliated – and their patient load capacity. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local hospital systems would be essential to establish an accurate physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are PCPs up-to-date on the latest lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers)? Do they proactively offer or recommend low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists? These factors are vital for ensuring timely and appropriate care. Assessing the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) within local practices is also important. EHRs facilitate data sharing and coordination of care, which is essential for managing complex conditions like lung cancer. Practices with robust EHR systems are generally better equipped to track patient history, manage medications, and coordinate referrals.

Identifying standout practices within the Dewart area is crucial. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and patient-centered service. This could be based on factors like patient satisfaction scores, the availability of extended hours, and the ability to provide comprehensive care under one roof. Practices that have invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, such as on-site imaging services, could also be considered. Furthermore, it is essential to assess how these practices handle patient education about lung cancer risk factors, screening options, and available support services.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by enabling virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and virtual support groups. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services within the 17730 ZIP code is crucial. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine platforms used by local practices, the range of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), and the accessibility of these services to patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in remote areas.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating. Mental health resources are essential for supporting patients and their families throughout the treatment journey. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the Dewart area is crucial. This includes identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists practicing within the area, as well as the types of mental health services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, support groups). The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also an important consideration. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better equipped to address the emotional needs of their patients.

Access to specialized lung cancer care is also critical. This includes the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable distance. Evaluating the proximity of these specialists to Dewart and the ease with which patients can access their services is essential. This involves assessing the wait times for appointments, the availability of specialized treatments (e.g., targeted therapies, immunotherapy), and the level of expertise of the specialists. Hospitals and cancer centers in the surrounding areas should be evaluated based on their accreditation, patient outcomes, and the range of services offered.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in Dewart, PA (ZIP code 17730) requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the quality of primary care practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and identifying the availability of mental health resources are all crucial components of a comprehensive analysis. This also includes the availability of specialists and the ease of access to these services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Dewart, PA, and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize complex healthcare data, providing valuable insights that can inform decision-making and improve patient outcomes.