17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.10 percent of the residents in 17864 has some form of health insurance. 27.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.35 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 17864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 689 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17864. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 325 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,789 health care providers accessible to residents in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Port Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17864) – An Analysis

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 17864, specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The primary focus is on primary care availability in Port Trevorton and the surrounding areas, as this forms the crucial first point of contact for potential lung cancer patients. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy.

Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania, is a rural community, and healthcare access often reflects this reality. One of the initial challenges is the physician-to-patient ratio. Rural areas frequently experience shortages of primary care physicians (PCPs). This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may struggle to secure timely appointments. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a significant concern. Patients might be required to travel considerable distances to receive specialized care, adding to the burden of their illness. Therefore, a lower physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Evaluating individual practices within the area requires a nuanced approach. Factors like the quality of equipment, the expertise of the medical staff, and the practice's commitment to preventive care are all essential. Practices that proactively screen for lung cancer, offer smoking cessation programs, and maintain strong referral networks will receive higher scores. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is another key indicator of practice quality. Practices that adhere to these guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals, are more likely to detect lung cancer at an early, more treatable stage.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can reduce travel burdens and improve access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine services for primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even specialist consultations will be viewed favorably. The availability of telemedicine is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The ease of access to virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall outcomes.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of their illness. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models will receive higher scores. This includes offering on-site counseling, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and fostering a supportive environment for patients and their families.

Analyzing the availability of these resources within ZIP Code 17864 requires a comprehensive approach. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), state health departments, and professional medical organizations provides valuable insights. Reviewing patient reviews and testimonials can also offer a glimpse into the quality of care provided by individual practices. However, the availability and accuracy of this data can vary, so it’s important to consider all available sources.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a careful evaluation of their services and commitment to patient care. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to preventive care, offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs, and integrate mental health services into their care models will be recognized. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and collaborate with other healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes will also be considered. These practices serve as a model for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in a rural setting.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Port Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17864) is impacted by a combination of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the score. The score is a relative measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in this specific area. The score will be lower if there are significant shortages of PCPs, limited access to specialists, and a lack of mental health support. Conversely, the score will be higher if the area boasts a robust network of primary care providers, offers comprehensive screening programs, and integrates mental health services into its care model.

The analysis also considers the challenges specific to lung cancer. Lung cancer often presents with vague symptoms, making early detection difficult. The success of treatment often hinges on early diagnosis. Therefore, the availability of screening programs, the expertise of the medical staff, and the patient’s access to timely care are all critical factors. The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on lung cancer outcomes. Patients with limited financial resources or who lack access to transportation may face significant barriers to care. Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes in any community.

The assessment also considers the importance of patient education and advocacy. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options will be viewed favorably. Practices that empower patients to make informed decisions about their care will receive higher scores. The analysis also considers the role of community organizations in supporting lung cancer patients. Organizations that provide support groups, financial assistance, and educational resources can play a vital role in improving patient outcomes.

The final Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare resources evolve. The score is intended to provide a snapshot of the current landscape and to highlight areas where improvements are needed. The goal is to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the challenges and opportunities related to lung cancer care in Port Trevorton and to promote efforts to improve patient outcomes. The analysis aims to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the current healthcare environment.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of Port Trevorton and beyond? Explore the power of spatial data with CartoChrome maps to gain deeper insights into physician distribution, resource availability, and patient access.