17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.89 percent of the residents in 17737 has some form of health insurance. 40.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.90 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 17737 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17737. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and related healthcare resources within Hughesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17737). The score considers factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support, focusing on the availability and accessibility of care. This analysis is not a definitive medical evaluation, but rather a data-driven overview to inform residents and healthcare stakeholders.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in the accessibility of primary care. Hughesville, a primarily rural community, faces potential challenges in this area. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts early screening and diagnosis. A higher physician-to-patient ratio indicates a greater potential for timely appointments and personalized care, which are vital for proactive lung cancer screening. The analysis will assess this ratio, comparing it to regional and national averages. We will also evaluate the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can significantly contribute to primary care delivery.

Standout practices are identified based on several criteria. These include the implementation of evidence-based screening protocols, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education, will receive higher scores. The analysis will examine patient testimonials and online reviews to gauge patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care provided. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs and health initiatives will also be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in enhancing healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which local primary care practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and specialist referrals. Telemedicine can significantly reduce travel burdens for patients, improve access to specialists, and facilitate timely interventions. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved healthcare delivery.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either directly or through referrals, will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is also considered.

Specific practices within the 17737 ZIP code will be assessed based on the aforementioned criteria. This includes evaluating the number of primary care physicians practicing within the area, the types of services offered, and the integration of technology. The analysis will examine the presence of any specialist referrals, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance. The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scanners, is also a critical factor.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hughesville will be determined by analyzing publicly available data, including information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. This ratio will be compared to regional and national benchmarks to assess the adequacy of primary care resources. The analysis will also consider the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code to identify any potential disparities in access to care.

The adoption of evidence-based screening protocols, such as LDCT scans, is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to early detection. The analysis will investigate the availability of LDCT screening within the community and the extent to which primary care physicians are referring eligible patients for these scans. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine capabilities will be assessed by examining practice websites, patient portals, and online reviews. The analysis will determine whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telemedicine services. The integration of telemedicine into the care model will be a significant factor in the overall score.

The availability of mental health resources will be evaluated by researching local mental health providers, support groups, and community organizations. The analysis will determine whether primary care practices have established referral pathways for mental health services. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients will receive a higher score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Hughesville will be a composite of these individual assessments. The score will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The analysis will conclude with recommendations for improving access to care, promoting early detection, and enhancing patient support.

This analysis aims to provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape of Hughesville, PA, specifically concerning lung cancer care. It is crucial for residents to be informed about the resources available to them and to advocate for improvements where necessary. Early detection and comprehensive care are critical for improving lung cancer outcomes, and a strong healthcare system is essential for achieving these goals.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hughesville, and to see the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the data through CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed visualization of physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, offering a powerful tool for understanding healthcare accessibility.