17801, Sunbury, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17801, Sunbury, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.93 percent of the residents in 17801 has some form of health insurance. 44.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.51 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 17801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,566 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17801. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,436 health care providers accessible to residents in 17801, Sunbury, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a nuanced perspective on the availability of resources and the potential for lung cancer care within the Sunbury, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17801) area. This assessment considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, technological integration, and the availability of supportive care. While a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single metric, this report synthesizes data to paint a picture of the current landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Sunbury, assessing primary care availability is critical. This includes evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally translates to better access to appointments and more individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio can signal potential challenges in securing timely consultations. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, combined with local hospital and clinic information, can help determine the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17801 ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians is crucial. Are physicians concentrated in a few large practices, or is there a more even spread across the community? Concentration can create bottlenecks, particularly for patients with limited transportation options or those residing in underserved areas. Conversely, a dispersed network may offer greater convenience and choice. The physical proximity of primary care practices to patients is another important factor. Geographic analysis, utilizing tools like GIS mapping, can reveal areas with limited access to primary care, potentially impacting early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Standout practices within the Sunbury area can be identified by examining their patient reviews, accreditation status, and participation in quality improvement programs. Practices that consistently receive positive patient feedback often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. Participation in programs focused on chronic disease management, including cancer screening and prevention, can further highlight a practice's dedication to lung cancer care. Investigating the specific services offered by each practice, such as smoking cessation programs and access to diagnostic imaging, is also valuable.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care for patients in Sunbury. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which primary care practices and specialists offer telehealth appointments, the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the technologies used (e.g., video conferencing platforms, patient portals).

The mental health of patients is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the Sunbury area is therefore a crucial consideration. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, who are accepting new patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also important. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within primary care practices, can improve access and coordination of care.

The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to cancer patients is another key factor. Local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations may offer these services. Assessing the scope and accessibility of these resources, including their location, hours of operation, and cost, is essential. The presence of palliative care services, which focus on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, is also vital. Palliative care can help manage symptoms, provide emotional support, and coordinate care.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in Sunbury requires a holistic approach. It is not enough to simply count the number of physicians or the availability of telemedicine. A comprehensive analysis must consider the interplay of these factors, along with the availability of mental health resources and supportive care services. Data on screening rates, treatment outcomes, and patient satisfaction can provide additional insights into the effectiveness of care.

The landscape is constantly evolving. Healthcare providers are continually adapting to new technologies and patient needs. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in Sunbury have access to the best possible lung cancer care. This includes ongoing efforts to improve physician-to-patient ratios, expand telemedicine services, integrate mental health care, and provide comprehensive support services.

This analysis highlights the complexities of assessing healthcare access and quality. It underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach that considers various factors. For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sunbury, including the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care within the 17801 ZIP code.