17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.61 percent of the residents in 17868 has some form of health insurance. 32.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.42 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 17868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 177 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,339 health care providers accessible to residents in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868)**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or undergoing treatment for lung cancer. This evaluation is intended to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Riverside and identify potential areas for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and a diminished ability for physicians to provide the individualized attention necessary for complex conditions like lung cancer. Analyzing the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 17868, compared to both state and national averages, provides a critical benchmark. If the ratio is significantly lower than the average, it signals a potential strain on the local healthcare system and may necessitate interventions to improve access, such as physician recruitment or the expansion of existing practices.

Identifying standout practices within Riverside is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, and employing a patient-centered approach. Evaluating practices based on their adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and their patient satisfaction scores can help identify those that excel in providing comprehensive care. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs, access to oncology specialists, and palliative care options, should be considered. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute to a higher overall standard of care in the community.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists through telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients in Riverside. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices in the area utilize telemedicine technologies, the types of services offered virtually, and the availability of technical support for patients is essential. Practices that embrace telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, reduce travel time for patients, and provide timely access to care, which is especially crucial for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging for patients and their families. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or easily accessible through referrals is essential. Evaluating the availability of these resources, the types of mental health services offered, and the integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan is vital. Practices that prioritize mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Riverside also involves examining the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing accessible and effective smoking cessation resources is a key component of lung cancer prevention. Assessing the availability of evidence-based programs, such as counseling, medication, and support groups, within primary care practices and the community is crucial. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation can play a significant role in reducing the incidence of lung cancer in the area.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the accessibility of lung cancer screening programs. Early detection is crucial for improving lung cancer survival rates. Assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, the adherence to screening guidelines, and the ease of access to these screenings for eligible patients is essential. Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening can contribute to earlier diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the coordination of care among different healthcare providers. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices coordinate care with these specialists, the use of shared electronic health records, and the communication between providers is crucial. Effective care coordination can improve patient outcomes, reduce medical errors, and enhance the overall patient experience.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Riverside, PA (ZIP code 17868) requires a comprehensive approach that considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other factors. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment and identify potential areas for improvement. By assessing these factors, we can gain insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals at risk or undergoing treatment for lung cancer. The goal is to create a healthcare system that prioritizes prevention, early detection, and comprehensive patient support.

For a visual representation of this data, including detailed maps of physician locations, service availability, and demographic information relevant to lung cancer risk factors, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Riverside and surrounding areas.