17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.58 percent of the residents in 17829 has some form of health insurance. 21.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.73 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 17829 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 59 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17829. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,295 health care providers accessible to residents in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania.

This analysis explores the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 17829, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in early detection and treatment. The assessment incorporates elements of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer. The analysis will also specifically address the situation in Hartleton, a community within the 17829 ZIP code.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the strength of the primary care network. In Hartleton and the broader 17829 area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio, where more doctors are available, can improve the chances of timely screenings and interventions. Data on this ratio, ideally segmented by age and socioeconomic factors, is essential to understand the true accessibility of care. Public health data and local medical society reports are valuable resources for this information.

Standout medical practices, those known for their commitment to early detection and patient-centered care, play a pivotal role. These practices often employ advanced screening techniques, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals. They may also have dedicated lung cancer screening programs, actively reaching out to eligible patients. Identifying these practices requires examining their patient testimonials, reviewing their performance metrics (if publicly available), and assessing their partnerships with specialized oncology centers. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening and management deserve recognition.

Telemedicine, especially in rural areas like Hartleton, has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialist consultations. The adoption rate of telemedicine within the 17829 area is a critical factor. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms can connect patients with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, facilitating prompt diagnoses and treatment plans. Evaluating the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of telehealth services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and patient satisfaction with telehealth experiences provides a more accurate picture of its impact.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Practices that offer or connect patients with mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, are better equipped to provide holistic care. Assessing the availability of mental health services, the types of support offered (e.g., individual therapy, support groups), and the integration of mental health professionals into the care team provides a more complete picture of the resources available.

The specific situation in Hartleton requires a more granular examination. The availability of primary care physicians within Hartleton itself, or in close proximity, is paramount. The distance patients must travel for appointments, the availability of transportation options, and the presence of any community health initiatives designed to improve access to care are all important considerations. The presence of community health centers or clinics within Hartleton can significantly improve access, particularly for underserved populations.

The quality of care extends beyond the availability of services. It encompasses the expertise of the medical professionals, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the coordination of care among different specialists. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons in the area is a significant indicator of the quality of care. Assessing the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET scans, and the presence of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists collaborate on treatment plans, further enhances the assessment.

Patient education and support programs also play a critical role. Practices that offer educational materials about lung cancer, smoking cessation programs, and support groups for patients and their families demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Evaluating the availability of these resources, the types of programs offered, and patient participation rates provides a more complete picture of the support available.

The analysis should also consider the impact of health insurance coverage. The availability of insurance options, the acceptance of different insurance plans by local medical practices, and the affordability of care are all crucial factors. Analyzing the demographics of the population within the 17829 area, including their insurance coverage status, provides a more nuanced understanding of the accessibility of care.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall community health environment. Factors such as air quality, smoking rates, and the prevalence of other risk factors for lung cancer can influence the incidence of the disease. Data on these factors, collected from public health agencies and local organizations, provides a broader context for the assessment.

In conclusion, evaluating the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 17829, and specifically in Hartleton, requires a multi-faceted approach. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, evaluating the integration of mental health resources, and considering the overall community health environment, a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system can be achieved. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better access to care for all residents.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, enabling you to make informed decisions and advocate for better care.