17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.80 percent of the residents in 17921 has some form of health insurance. 32.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.29 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 17921 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 916 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17921. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,779 health care providers accessible to residents in 17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ashland, PA (ZIP Code 17921)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Ashland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17921), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the factors discussed.

Ashland, a small borough in Schuylkill County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access, common in rural areas. The availability of specialized medical services, particularly those related to cancer care, can be limited. Understanding the local resources is crucial for residents and healthcare providers.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access:**

A fundamental aspect of this analysis is the physician-to-patient ratio. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical first line of defense. Early detection of lung cancer often hinges on regular check-ups and screenings initiated by a PCP. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Researching the specific ratio for ZIP Code 17921 and comparing it to state and national averages is essential. This includes assessing the number of active PCPs, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients.

Primary care availability extends beyond the number of doctors. It encompasses factors such as office hours, appointment scheduling systems, and the acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. The presence of after-hours clinics or urgent care facilities can also impact access. A robust primary care infrastructure is the foundation upon which specialized cancer care is built.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

Identifying standout practices within the area is important. This involves researching practices that are known for their commitment to patient care, their use of advanced diagnostic tools, and their collaborative approach to treatment. Assessing the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is critical. Are these specialists located within Ashland, or do patients need to travel to larger cities like Pottsville or Reading for specialized care?

Furthermore, the existence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams is a positive indicator. These teams typically include physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers who work together to provide comprehensive care. The presence of a dedicated oncology unit or a cancer center within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage.

**Diagnostic Capabilities:**

Early and accurate diagnosis is paramount in lung cancer treatment. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, is crucial for screening high-risk individuals. Assessing the local hospitals and clinics for their capacity to perform these scans, along with their turnaround times for results, is essential.

The presence of on-site pathology services is another important factor. Rapid access to biopsy results allows for quicker treatment decisions. The quality of the pathology services, including the expertise of the pathologists and the accuracy of their diagnoses, should be considered.

**Treatment Options and Facilities:**

The range of treatment options available locally is a key determinant of the Lung Cancer Score. Does the area have access to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology? If not, patients will need to travel, which can add to the burden of treatment and impact their quality of life.

The availability of clinical trials is another factor to consider. Participation in clinical trials can offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer research.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is important. Are they offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telehealth support services?

Telemedicine can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available in Ashland. The ease of use of telemedicine platforms and the availability of technical support for patients are important considerations.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care.

Assessing the availability of these resources within Ashland and the surrounding areas is essential. Do local hospitals or clinics offer mental health services? Are there support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is vital.

**Patient Support and Resources:**

Beyond medical care, the availability of patient support resources is critical. This includes access to patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and educational materials. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access support services.

Financial assistance programs can help patients cover the costs of treatment, medications, and transportation. Educational materials can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

**Overall Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Lung Cancer Score for Ashland, PA (ZIP Code 17921) is likely to be influenced by the challenges of a rural setting. The availability of primary care, specialized oncology services, and mental health resources will be key determinants. While the area may face limitations in terms of specialized care, the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals and the adoption of telemedicine can mitigate some of these challenges. The focus should be on strengthening the existing infrastructure and expanding access to essential services.

**Call to Action:**

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Ashland, PA (ZIP Code 17921), including physician locations, hospital data, and other relevant information, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resources in your community.