17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.38 percent of the residents in 17760 has some form of health insurance. 40.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.64 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 17760 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17760. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 280 health care providers accessible to residents in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: North Bend, PA (ZIP Code 17760)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing a potential or confirmed lung cancer diagnosis in this rural Pennsylvania community.

North Bend, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's scenic landscape, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relatively small population, combined with its geographic isolation, necessitates a careful examination of resource allocation and access to specialized care. The success of lung cancer treatment hinges on early detection, timely intervention, and comprehensive patient support, all of which are significantly influenced by the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. This analysis begins by evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within and around ZIP Code 17760. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial diagnostic procedures and treatment initiation. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and relevant healthcare databases will be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio in the area. This assessment will consider the geographical distribution of PCPs, ensuring that the analysis accurately reflects the accessibility of primary care services for residents of North Bend.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis will investigate the presence of any standout primary care practices in or near 17760. This includes assessing factors such as the practice's commitment to preventative care, including routine lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals. The evaluation will consider the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, coupled with a history of early diagnosis and effective patient management, will be recognized as leaders in the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will examine the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by local healthcare providers. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. The adoption of telemedicine can significantly reduce travel burdens for patients, improve access to expert opinions, and facilitate remote monitoring of patient health. The analysis will explore the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care continuum.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. It will also assess the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to the needs of lung cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for promoting patient well-being and improving treatment outcomes.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is a critical factor in the treatment of lung cancer. While North Bend may not have these specialists directly within its ZIP code, the analysis will examine the proximity and accessibility of these specialists in nearby communities. This includes evaluating the travel time to specialists, the availability of appointments, and the coordination of care between primary care providers and specialists. The analysis will also consider the presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which bring together a variety of specialists to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

The analysis will also assess the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care, accessing financial assistance, and providing emotional support. The presence of these services can significantly improve the patient experience and facilitate access to timely and effective care.

The assessment will also delve into the presence of any community outreach programs or initiatives aimed at raising awareness about lung cancer, promoting early detection, and providing support to patients and their families. These programs can play a vital role in educating the public, reducing stigma, and improving access to care.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available to individuals facing a potential or confirmed lung cancer diagnosis in North Bend, Pennsylvania. By examining the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, this analysis aims to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and quality of care in this rural community. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing the delivery of lung cancer care.

The findings of this analysis, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, can be visualized and analyzed using advanced mapping tools.