17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.49 percent of the residents in 17824 has some form of health insurance. 28.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.96 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 17824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 665 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 922 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,870 health care providers accessible to residents in 17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Elysburg, PA (ZIP Code 17824)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape within Elysburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17824), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The primary goal is to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and management of the disease. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the area.

Elysburg, a small community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access compared to more urban areas. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting the physician-to-patient ratio. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios are dynamic and require constant monitoring, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights. Analyzing this data, coupled with information from local hospitals and clinics, provides a baseline understanding of the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists within a reasonable travel distance for residents. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians, is a positive indicator for timely access to care, a critical factor in lung cancer screening and diagnosis.

Assessing the quality of primary care involves identifying standout practices. This necessitates examining factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the integration of preventative care measures. Practices that emphasize preventative screenings, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education regarding smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and early symptom recognition are crucial. Identifying these practices requires a combination of online research, review of insurance provider networks, and potentially, consultation with local healthcare professionals. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance also significantly impacts the overall score, as it facilitates timely referrals and specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant area for improvement and a potential strength. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations, can mitigate the challenges of geographic isolation. Analyzing the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of the platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall patient care workflow. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access and improving patient convenience, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment or managing chronic conditions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are an essential component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is critical. Assessing the presence of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating their capacity to accept new patients, and determining whether they have experience working with cancer patients. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or facilitating referrals to mental health specialists, is a positive indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient well-being.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Elysburg is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these factors. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The presence of a strong primary care base, characterized by a favorable physician-to-patient ratio and a commitment to preventative care, forms the foundation of a high score. The adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized care providers further enhance the score.

Specific practices within the area that demonstrate a commitment to these factors deserve recognition. These practices often prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive screening programs, and actively participate in community outreach initiatives. Identifying these practices and highlighting their contributions is a key component of the analysis. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available data and general observations. Specific patient outcomes and the effectiveness of individual treatment plans are beyond the scope of this assessment.

The limitations of this analysis include the inherent challenges of accessing real-time, granular data on physician-to-patient ratios and the specific services offered by each practice. Furthermore, patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes are not directly measured. The "Lung Cancer Score" is therefore an approximation, a tool for understanding the overall healthcare environment rather than a definitive evaluation of individual practices or patient experiences.

Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare providers emerging regularly. Regular updates to the "Lung Cancer Score" are necessary to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This includes tracking changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear and concise picture of the healthcare environment, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and access the care they need.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Elysburg, PA (ZIP code 17824) will be a reflection of the combined factors discussed above. It will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve lung cancer outcomes in the community. The score will highlight areas of strength and identify opportunities for improvement, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.

This analysis is designed to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape in Elysburg, PA. For a more detailed and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize healthcare data and make informed decisions about your health.