17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.68 percent of the residents in 17812 has some form of health insurance. 44.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.34 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 17812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 427 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 341 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 616 health care providers accessible to residents in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Beaver Springs, PA (ZIP Code 17812)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17812), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will assess primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, empowering residents with information to make informed decisions about their health.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Beaver Springs, primary care availability is a crucial factor. The area's rural nature often presents challenges, including a potentially limited number of physicians and specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from the US Census Bureau, allows us to estimate the number of primary care physicians serving the population within and surrounding 17812. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, raises concerns about access to timely appointments and consistent care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more favorable environment for patients seeking primary care services.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. We must examine the operational hours of local practices, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day appointments. Long wait times and limited appointment slots can significantly delay crucial screenings and diagnoses, especially for conditions like lung cancer where early detection is critical. We also need to consider the insurance plans accepted by local practices, ensuring that residents have access to affordable care.

Identifying "standout practices" involves recognizing those that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in preventative measures and chronic disease management. This requires evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and the integration of electronic health records for seamless communication and care coordination. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting healthy lifestyles and early detection, also deserve recognition.

The rise of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving healthcare access in rural areas like Beaver Springs. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is crucial. We must determine the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, consultations) and the availability of telehealth infrastructure, such as reliable internet connectivity, essential for effective virtual care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. We need to investigate the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area and their capacity to provide support to patients and their families. This includes assessing the availability of individual therapy, group support sessions, and access to psychiatric medication management. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can facilitate early identification and intervention, improving patient outcomes.

The quality of care extends beyond the physical treatment of the disease. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and cancer support groups, is also essential. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Cancer support groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, connect with others facing similar challenges, and receive valuable peer support. Assessing the presence and accessibility of these resources is crucial in creating a supportive environment for lung cancer patients.

Further investigation would delve into the specific practices within the 17812 ZIP code. This would involve identifying the names of primary care providers, their specialties, and their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. We would also analyze the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans, and the referral pathways for patients who require specialized care. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center or affiliation with a larger healthcare system could significantly enhance the quality and scope of care available to local residents.

The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment options, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology, is also a crucial consideration. Assessing the proximity of these services and the expertise of the medical professionals providing them is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of clinical trials, which can offer patients access to innovative treatments and therapies. The presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is a strong indicator of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Beaver Springs, PA (17812) is a complex assessment that takes into account all the factors mentioned above. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment, with greater access to primary care, readily available specialists, robust telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health and support services. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, highlighting potential challenges in accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and support.

To visualize and better understand the healthcare landscape in Beaver Springs, and to gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources in the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant data, offering a powerful tool for making informed decisions about your healthcare.