17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.94 percent of the residents in 17827 has some form of health insurance. 41.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.83 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 17827 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 161 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17827. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 247 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 17827, Freeburg, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 17827 (Freeburg, Pennsylvania), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, specifically concerning lung cancer detection and management, for residents of Freeburg.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Freeburg, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a key determinant of early detection and treatment of lung cancer. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Assessing the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the Freeburg ZIP code requires access to current, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This data would reveal the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the area and the total population they serve. The ideal ratio is often considered to be around 1 PCP per 1,000 to 1,500 residents, though this can vary depending on the demographics of the community.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are the physicians clustered in one part of the ZIP code, leaving other areas underserved? Are there any specialists, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, practicing within the area or nearby? Proximity to specialists is crucial for timely referrals and comprehensive cancer care. A lack of specialists within a reasonable distance can significantly hinder the ability to diagnose and treat lung cancer effectively.

Standout practices in Freeburg, if any, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and patient-centered care. This could include practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers, in accordance with guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These practices would likely have established protocols for referring patients to pulmonologists or oncologists for further evaluation and treatment. They might also offer patient education materials and support groups to help patients navigate the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor in assessing the quality of care. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Freeburg, by reducing the need for travel. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial screenings can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telehealth services is particularly important for patients with lung cancer, who may experience fatigue and other symptoms that make travel difficult.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models are better equipped to support patients through the emotional and psychological aspects of their illness. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support groups. The availability of mental health resources can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

Specific practices in Freeburg that are known for their commitment to these areas would be considered standout practices. This would involve reviewing online resources, physician directories, and patient reviews. Some practices might be affiliated with larger healthcare systems, which often have more resources and infrastructure to support comprehensive cancer care. However, even smaller, independent practices can excel by focusing on patient-centered care, early detection, and the integration of mental health services.

The success of lung cancer care also relies on the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for early detection is a critical factor. The availability of these services within Freeburg or a reasonable distance is essential for ensuring that high-risk individuals can be screened regularly. Furthermore, the availability of other diagnostic tools, such as bronchoscopy and biopsy services, is important for confirming diagnoses and staging the disease.

Moreover, the level of patient education is a vital component of effective lung cancer care. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects are better able to empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This could include providing educational materials, hosting patient workshops, or offering one-on-one counseling sessions.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in Freeburg (ZIP Code 17827) requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices that prioritize early detection and patient-centered care, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources are all crucial steps. This comprehensive assessment provides a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement.

For a more visual and detailed understanding of the healthcare resources available in Freeburg and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and hospitals, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare providers and facilities, helping you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.