17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.75 percent of the residents in 17762 has some form of health insurance. 29.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.81 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 17762 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 71 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17762. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 929 health care providers accessible to residents in 17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Picture Rocks, PA (ZIP Code 17762)

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17762) is crucial, especially when considering a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis will focus on primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and overall practice quality, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score, while not a formal medical grading, aims to provide a practical understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. In Picture Rocks, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. While precise, real-time data on this ratio requires constant updates, publicly available resources and local healthcare directories provide a general picture. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time for thorough examinations and patient education. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized care and greater opportunities for preventative screenings, such as those recommended for individuals at high risk of lung cancer.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is also critical. While Picture Rocks itself may not have these specialists, the proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding areas, such as Williamsport or Bloomsburg, is a crucial factor. The travel time to these centers, the ease of access to transportation, and the overall network of care are all vital components of a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score. This includes assessing the ability of PCPs to effectively refer patients to specialists and the efficiency of the referral process.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals living in rural areas like Picture Rocks. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and receive remote monitoring can reduce the burden of travel, particularly for patients undergoing treatment or managing chronic conditions. Practices that embrace telemedicine often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to utilize technology to improve outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of telemedicine services offered by local primary care practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring, etc.) and the ease of use for patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critically important in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a significant factor in the overall quality of care. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the proximity to mental health services, the acceptance of insurance by these providers, and the availability of support groups or other resources specifically tailored to cancer patients. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a positive indicator, suggesting a more holistic approach to patient well-being.

Identifying standout practices within Picture Rocks is a key part of the analysis. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, the implementation of evidence-based practices, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development are likely to score higher. The Lung Cancer Score will consider the reputation of local practices, their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and their ability to effectively coordinate care with specialists.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17762) is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. It is important to emphasize that this score is not a definitive medical judgment but rather a tool to help individuals understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about their care. The score considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the access to mental health resources, and the quality of local practices. The score will be presented as a relative assessment, providing a general indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area.

The score will also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, cancer centers, and patient advocacy organizations. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families. The Lung Cancer Score will take into account the accessibility of these resources and their ability to meet the needs of the local population.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania, presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer. While the specifics of the Lung Cancer Score will depend on the ongoing collection and analysis of data, the factors discussed in this analysis provide a framework for understanding the key considerations. It is important to remember that healthcare is a dynamic field, and the information provided here should be considered in conjunction with the advice of medical professionals.

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