17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 27.15 percent of the residents in 17810 has some form of health insurance. 14.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 16.54 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 17810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 727 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,812 health care providers accessible to residents in 17810, Allenwood, Pennsylvania.

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within the ZIP code 17810, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Allenwood, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of resources for patients, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. They serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for early detection, patient education, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Allenwood, understanding the PCP landscape is paramount. While a simple count of physicians is a starting point, the physician-to-patient ratio offers a more insightful perspective. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can be cross-referenced with physician directories to calculate this ratio accurately. This data, however, only paints a partial picture.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by PCPs is critical. This involves several factors, including the experience and training of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools in their offices, and their commitment to preventative care, such as lung cancer screening guidelines. Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. Reviewing patient testimonials, examining practice accreditations, and assessing the adoption of evidence-based practices are all essential. The presence of certified patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs), for example, often signifies a commitment to coordinated, patient-focused care, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can offer numerous advantages, including remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate Allenwood area. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires examining the technological infrastructure of local practices, their use of virtual platforms, and their policies regarding remote patient monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience, which can be particularly important for patients facing mobility challenges or those residing in rural areas.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis can be immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an indispensable component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals within the local practices, partnerships with mental health organizations, and the availability of support groups in the community. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a holistic approach to care, recognizing that physical well-being is inextricably linked to emotional and psychological health.

The assessment of these factors allows for a nuanced 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis. This score is not a simple ranking but a comprehensive evaluation of the resources available to patients within the 17810 ZIP code. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score is designed to provide a snapshot of the current landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and identifying areas where improvements are needed.

In addition to the factors discussed above, the analysis should consider the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. The presence of these programs, along with the PCP's adherence to screening guidelines, is a critical indicator of preventative care. Furthermore, the analysis should also evaluate the accessibility of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, who are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape within 17810 is a dynamic process. The healthcare system is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and care models emerging regularly. This requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care. This analysis should be considered a starting point, providing a foundation for further investigation and improvement.

Finally, the analysis should also consider the role of community resources, such as support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. These resources can provide invaluable support to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of lung cancer care. The analysis should assess the availability and accessibility of these resources, as well as their integration with the healthcare system.

This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in Allenwood, Pennsylvania. To further explore the geographic distribution of these resources and visualize the data discussed, we encourage you to use CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform to visualize geographic data, allowing you to explore the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant resources in the 17810 area.