17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.21 percent of the residents in 17860 has some form of health insurance. 32.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.89 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 17860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 688 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17860. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 497 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,327 health care providers accessible to residents in 17860, Paxinos, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Paxinos, PA (ZIP Code 17860)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Paxinos, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17860), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The assessment considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing this disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. In Paxinos, the availability of PCPs and the physician-to-patient ratio are critical indicators. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive screening. Researching the specific number of PCPs actively practicing within the 17860 ZIP code, and comparing this to the population size, will provide a baseline for understanding access. The analysis must also consider the geographical distribution of these physicians within Paxinos, as proximity to care is a significant factor, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired patients.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. The analysis needs to investigate the practices of the PCPs in the area. Are they actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Do they have established protocols for identifying high-risk patients, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental carcinogens? The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also vital. EHRs facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information between PCPs and specialists, improving care coordination and preventing medical errors. The analysis should assess the EHR adoption rates among local practices and their capacity to integrate with regional healthcare systems.

The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. While Paxinos might not have these specialists directly within the ZIP code, the proximity to larger healthcare centers is essential. The analysis should identify the nearest hospitals and medical centers that offer these specialized services, including diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. The accessibility of these specialists, measured by travel time and appointment availability, significantly impacts the overall score. Furthermore, the analysis should assess the availability of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which bring together specialists from various disciplines to provide comprehensive and coordinated treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption presents another critical aspect of the evaluation. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Paxinos. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local practices and healthcare providers utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent travel and providing convenient access to healthcare professionals. The availability of telemedicine platforms and the willingness of local providers to embrace this technology will influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and potential side effects can be significant. The analysis needs to evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Paxinos and the surrounding areas. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. The integration of mental health services within the cancer care pathway is also important. Are there programs that provide patients with access to mental health professionals who specialize in oncology? The availability and accessibility of these resources will contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the 17860 ZIP code should be highlighted. This could include practices that demonstrate exceptional patient care, actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, or have a strong track record of successful outcomes. The analysis should identify any practices that have implemented innovative approaches to lung cancer care, such as patient navigation programs or clinical trials. These practices should be recognized for their contributions to improving the quality of care for patients in the area.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed. It will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Paxinos, PA, specifically related to lung cancer care. The score will consider the availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the proximity to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. It will also factor in the quality of care provided by local practices and the presence of any standout programs. The final score will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing lung cancer in the region.

The analysis recognizes the limitations of publicly available data. It emphasizes the need for further investigation, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and community organizations. The goal is to provide a realistic and informative assessment of the healthcare landscape in Paxinos, PA, and to identify areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a more detailed and geographically visualized understanding of the healthcare resources in Paxinos, PA (ZIP Code 17860), including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. Visit CartoChrome's website to explore their maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.