17832, Marion Heights, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17832, Marion Heights, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.12 percent of the residents in 17832 has some form of health insurance. 52.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.84 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 17832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17832. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,566 health care providers accessible to residents in 17832, Marion Heights, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marion Heights, PA (ZIP Code 17832)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 17832, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide an informed assessment of the resources available to residents of Marion Heights, Pennsylvania, particularly concerning primary care access and the capabilities of local physicians. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate aim is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. Early detection is critical, and this relies on regular checkups, screenings, and a proactive approach to patient health. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is therefore paramount. In Marion Heights, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 17832 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments. This data, along with information from local hospitals and clinics, forms the bedrock of our analysis.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. We must identify and evaluate standout practices within the area. This involves looking at factors such as physician experience, patient satisfaction scores (available through surveys and online reviews), and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), deserve recognition. These practices often have established protocols for ordering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening tool for lung cancer. They also facilitate timely referrals to pulmonologists and other specialists if abnormalities are detected. Identifying these high-performing practices is crucial for residents seeking optimal care.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Marion Heights is a significant factor in our assessment. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some diagnostic services remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or limited access to specialists. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs and specialists is essential. This includes determining the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology platforms used, and the insurance coverage for these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, factors that positively influence our Lung Cancer Score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. Our analysis must evaluate the availability of these resources within the Marion Heights area. This includes identifying mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Access to support groups, counseling services, and other forms of mental health support is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with the disease. The presence of integrated mental health services within local healthcare practices or partnerships with mental health providers will significantly enhance our Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services plays a vital role. This includes access to smoking cessation programs, which are critical for prevention and improving treatment outcomes. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation and offer resources like counseling, medication, and support groups demonstrate a commitment to patient health beyond simply treating the disease. The presence of these programs, along with access to physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and other supportive services, contributes to a more holistic approach to lung cancer care.

The assessment of specialist availability is also critical. While primary care is the gateway, the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists is essential for effective treatment. We must determine the proximity of these specialists to Marion Heights, the wait times for appointments, and the range of services they offer. Access to specialized equipment and advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, will also be considered. The presence of a comprehensive network of specialists is a key determinant of our Lung Cancer Score.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite metric, reflecting the combined impact of all the factors discussed. This score will not be a single numerical value but a nuanced assessment that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Marion Heights. The score will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of specialist care. The score will be a valuable tool for residents seeking information about local healthcare options and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Marion Heights, including the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we recommend exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data. Utilizing their maps, you can easily identify healthcare resources, assess access to care, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the healthcare landscape in your area.