17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.49 percent of the residents in 17763 has some form of health insurance. 47.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.75 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 17763 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17763. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 555 health care providers accessible to residents in 17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17763 and Primary Care in Ralston

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources in ZIP Code 17763, with a particular focus on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. It also examines the availability of primary care services in the nearby town of Ralston, Pennsylvania, as primary care is critical for early detection and ongoing management. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care system rests on the availability of skilled physicians. ZIP Code 17763, encompassing the area around Williamsport, Pennsylvania, likely sees a mix of general practitioners, specialists, and potentially, oncologists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally correlates with better access to care. However, simply counting doctors isn't enough. The *type* of doctors is equally important. The presence of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists is directly linked to the ability to diagnose and treat lung cancer effectively. We need to determine the number of each specialist type practicing within the ZIP code or in close proximity, considering factors like hospital affiliations and referral networks.

Primary care availability in Ralston, a smaller community, is of paramount importance. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, and they are crucial for preventative screenings, early detection of lung cancer symptoms, and timely referrals to specialists. Assessing the number of PCPs, their patient load, and the ease of scheduling appointments are all critical elements of the analysis. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often provide primary care services, also needs to be considered. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care providers within Ralston will influence access for residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or lacking reliable transportation.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the performance of local healthcare practices and hospitals. Are they accredited by reputable organizations? Do they participate in quality improvement programs? Do they have a track record of successful lung cancer outcomes? Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners for lung cancer screening, is also a vital factor. The availability of these technologies, and the protocols for their use, can significantly impact early detection rates.

Standout practices within the area warrant specific recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care, through initiatives like patient-centered care models, participation in clinical trials, and a focus on patient education, can highlight best practices and provide a benchmark for other providers. This could involve reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing practice websites for information on lung cancer programs, and examining data on patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant aspect of the analysis. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. The availability of telehealth consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and online educational resources are all factors that contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score." We need to investigate which practices in 17763 and surrounding areas offer telemedicine services, and the types of services they provide.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for providing support to patients and their families. The analysis should assess the availability of these services within the ZIP code and the surrounding region, including information on insurance coverage and referral pathways.

The analysis also needs to consider the broader community resources available to lung cancer patients. This includes support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs. The presence of these resources can help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This would include researching local chapters of the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, and other organizations that provide support to cancer patients.

Furthermore, it's important to analyze the hospital affiliations of the physicians and practices within the area. This helps determine the referral networks and the availability of specialized services. Does the area have a comprehensive cancer center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists? Are there affiliations with larger hospitals in nearby cities that offer advanced treatment options? The answers to these questions will significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

Finally, we need to consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence access to care. These factors include insurance coverage, income levels, and transportation options. Patients who lack insurance or face financial barriers may have difficulty accessing the care they need. The analysis should consider the availability of resources to assist patients with these challenges.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for ZIP Code 17763 and the primary care landscape in Ralston requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a thorough investigation of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support systems. By carefully evaluating these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, practice locations, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17763 and Ralston.