17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 55.76 percent of the residents in 17931 has some form of health insurance. 23.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.11 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 17931 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17931. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 946 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,910 health care providers accessible to residents in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 17931, focusing on primary care availability in Frackville, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers factors crucial to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. It aims to offer insights into the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Frackville, within the 17931 ZIP code, faces challenges common to rural areas, particularly concerning physician distribution. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly impact early detection, as patients may delay seeking care due to difficulty securing appointments. This scarcity can also strain existing practices, potentially affecting the time physicians can dedicate to each patient and the thoroughness of examinations. Furthermore, a limited number of primary care providers might necessitate longer travel distances for residents to access medical services, creating a barrier to proactive health management and early intervention for suspected lung cancer cases.

Analyzing the practices within the region reveals a varied landscape. Some practices might be well-established, offering a comprehensive range of services, including basic screening protocols and patient education materials. These practices often have a more robust infrastructure, potentially including dedicated nursing staff and specialized equipment. Others might be smaller, perhaps single-physician operations, which could offer a more personalized approach but potentially lack the resources of larger groups. Evaluating the types of practices and their service offerings is critical to understanding the overall quality of care available.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator of healthcare accessibility. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and preliminary screenings, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those living in more remote areas. Telemedicine also allows specialists to consult remotely with primary care physicians, providing valuable expertise and support in diagnosing and managing lung cancer cases. The extent of telemedicine integration within the practices in 17931 is a crucial factor in assessing the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Practices that offer or have readily available referral pathways to mental health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to counselors, therapists, and support groups, which can play a vital role in helping patients cope with the psychological challenges of their illness. The availability and accessibility of these resources are essential to improving the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Assessing the practices in 17931 also necessitates an examination of their screening practices. Do they actively promote and implement lung cancer screening protocols, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for eligible patients? Do they follow the guidelines established by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? The presence of these practices, along with patient education on the risks of smoking and the benefits of early detection, are vital for improving the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the specific practices, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Frackville and the surrounding areas plays a role. The presence of hospitals with advanced imaging capabilities, oncology specialists, and radiation therapy facilities is essential for providing comprehensive cancer care. The proximity and accessibility of these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes. Collaboration and communication between primary care physicians and specialists are also vital for ensuring coordinated and effective treatment plans.

Identifying standout practices requires a closer look at several factors. Some practices might have a particularly strong track record of early detection, achieved through proactive screening programs and patient education. Others might excel in patient communication and support, fostering a strong doctor-patient relationship. Still others might be at the forefront of telemedicine adoption, making care more accessible and convenient. Evaluating these aspects can help identify the practices that are leading the way in providing high-quality lung cancer care.

The assessment of mental health resources is equally important. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals or offer in-house counseling services demonstrate a commitment to addressing the emotional needs of their patients. This support can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness. The presence of support groups and educational resources also contributes to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 17931 is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to detect, diagnose, treat, and support patients with lung cancer. This includes a sufficient number of primary care physicians, proactive screening practices, robust telemedicine integration, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, increasing screening rates, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing access to mental health support.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Frackville and the surrounding areas, including the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data, enabling you to identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.