17779, Woolrich, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17779, Woolrich, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17779 has some form of health insurance. 26.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 17779 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17779. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 709 health care providers accessible to residents in 17779, Woolrich, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Woolrich, PA (ZIP Code 17779)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Woolrich, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17779) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on factors directly impacting lung cancer care, including physician availability, particularly primary care, access to specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support. This holistic perspective allows for a more comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of co-morbidities are crucial. In Woolrich, primary care availability directly impacts the overall score. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 17779 ZIP code, and comparing it to state and national averages, is a critical first step. This data, obtained from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a baseline understanding of accessibility.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Are there any standout practices within the area? Identifying practices known for their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs, significantly boosts the score. Examining patient reviews, assessing the availability of on-site diagnostic services (like X-rays), and understanding the practice's referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists are essential. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs related to lung health also contribute positively to the overall assessment.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The proximity to pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists is paramount. Woolrich is a relatively rural area, and access to these specialists might be limited. Assessing the travel time to the nearest specialists, considering the availability of transportation options for patients, and evaluating the referral processes between primary care physicians and specialists are vital aspects of the analysis. Partnerships between local primary care practices and larger hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities can improve the score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. Assessing the extent to which local practices and specialists offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients, directly influences the score. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the accessibility of care for residents of Woolrich.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community or accessible through referrals, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or actively collaborate with mental health professionals, enhance the score. The presence of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is a significant positive factor.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for smoking cessation is essential. Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking, and providing patients with the tools and support to quit smoking can improve outcomes. Assessing the availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and educational materials, within the local healthcare system positively impacts the score. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation initiatives and collaborating with community organizations on related programs are highly valued.

The "Lung Cancer Score" should also incorporate an assessment of the healthcare system's responsiveness to the needs of the community. This includes factors such as language accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to address the unique challenges faced by residents of Woolrich. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing culturally competent care and addressing health disparities contribute positively to the score.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall quality of care provided. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the use of advanced technologies for diagnosis and treatment. Data on patient outcomes, such as survival rates and recurrence rates, can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the local healthcare system.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for Woolrich, PA (ZIP Code 17779) requires a detailed examination of physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, smoking cessation programs, and the overall quality of care. This analysis should be data-driven, incorporating information from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient feedback. The resulting score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Woolrich, PA, and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and other relevant data, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed above, providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare resources available in your community.