17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17933 has some form of health insurance. 63.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 17933 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17933. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,708 health care providers accessible to residents in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Friedensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17933). We will assess the landscape for primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, and the support systems in place, ultimately aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" based on the observed factors. This score reflects the community's preparedness to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is crucial, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Friedensburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state-level health departments, should be consulted to ascertain the precise ratio within this specific ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting greater access, would boost the rating.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of the primary care practices is paramount. Factors to consider include the breadth of services offered, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of specialized diagnostic tools. Practices that prioritize preventive care, including regular screenings for at-risk individuals, will contribute positively to the score. Similarly, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and shared decision-making are highly valued.

One aspect of modern healthcare is the integration of telemedicine. The adoption of telehealth services by PCPs in Friedensburg is a crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices actively utilizing telehealth for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education will receive a higher score than those that have not embraced this technology.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Friedensburg community is a significant factor. Practices that collaborate with mental health professionals or offer in-house counseling services will be viewed favorably. The presence of local support groups, such as those affiliated with the American Lung Association or Cancer Support Community, also improves the score.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in patient care. Factors to consider include:

* **Patient satisfaction:** Reviews from patients, whether available through online platforms or patient surveys, offer valuable insights into the quality of care.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation from reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), indicates a commitment to quality and patient safety.
* **Specialized services:** Practices offering specialized services, such as smoking cessation programs or access to clinical trials, can significantly enhance the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical consideration. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists to Friedensburg and the ease of referral from PCPs are factors to be assessed. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance would significantly benefit the score.

Accessibility to diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans, is also a critical component. The availability of these technologies within the community or a short travel distance is essential for timely diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. Practices with strong relationships with imaging centers and efficient referral processes will contribute positively to the score.

The presence of community resources, such as transportation services for patients undergoing treatment or financial assistance programs, can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. These resources help to alleviate the burden of lung cancer on patients and their families, allowing them to focus on their health.

Data on smoking rates within the community is also relevant. High smoking rates indicate a greater risk of lung cancer and a greater need for preventive measures and early detection programs. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the community's efforts to address this risk factor, such as the availability of smoking cessation programs and public health campaigns.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933) will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with excellent access to primary care, a commitment to preventive care, a robust support system for patients, and a proactive approach to addressing the challenges of lung cancer. A low score would indicate areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, enhancing access to specialists, and expanding mental health resources. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Friedensburg, including the location of practices, specialists, and support services, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide a detailed overview of the resources available, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.