17814, Benton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.18 percent of the residents in 17814 has some form of health insurance. 41.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.61 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 17814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 913 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,178 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,257 health care providers accessible to residents in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP code 17814 (Benton, Pennsylvania) and its immediate vicinity, focusing on primary care access and related services. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment support, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to offer insights into the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. Accurate, up-to-the-minute data on this metric is often challenging to obtain publicly. However, we can infer general availability. Rural areas, like Benton, often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. This can lead to higher patient-to-physician ratios compared to more urban settings. This potentially means longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing primary care providers. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a significant consideration. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer require specialized care, and the proximity of these specialists is vital for timely and effective treatment.

Primary care availability in Benton is a core component of this analysis. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first point of contact for many patients and play a crucial role in lung cancer screening and early detection. The presence of a robust primary care network, including family physicians and internal medicine specialists, is essential. This network should be readily accessible, with appointment availability that meets the needs of the community. Factors like insurance acceptance and the availability of evening or weekend hours also significantly impact access.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 17814 is important. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly regarding lung cancer screening and early intervention. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), are of particular interest. These programs often involve low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that have integrated these screenings into their standard of care are likely providing a higher level of proactive care. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support, including providing resources on smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices, are also considered commendable.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can be a significant benefit for patients in Benton. This is especially relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer virtual appointments are contributing to improved access and convenience for their patients. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, such as devices that track vital signs, can also play a role in managing chronic conditions and supporting patients undergoing lung cancer treatment.

Mental health resources are a crucial aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing support and managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group support, and psychiatric care, is vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

The analysis also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers. Patient navigators can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing resources. Social workers can provide support with social and financial challenges. The presence of these support services can significantly improve a patient's experience and outcomes.

Assessing the overall healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17814 requires careful consideration of the factors discussed above. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice-level details may be limited, the general assessment indicates potential challenges related to access to care, particularly given the rural nature of Benton. The availability of primary care providers is a key determinant of the overall quality of care. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are critical for improving access and providing comprehensive support.

The identification of standout practices that prioritize lung cancer screening, patient education, and support services is essential. This includes practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These programs often involve low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that have integrated these screenings into their standard of care are likely providing a higher level of proactive care.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare resources available in Benton, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, including healthcare information. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.