17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17934 has some form of health insurance. 63.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.52 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 17934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17934. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Analyzing Primary Care in Gilberton (ZIP Code 17934)

This analysis delves into the primary care landscape within Gilberton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17934), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician availability, access to care, and the integration of supportive services. This score, while not a definitive metric, offers a snapshot of the local healthcare ecosystem's preparedness to address lung cancer concerns.

The initial assessment focuses on physician-to-patient ratios. Gilberton, a small community, likely experiences a lower physician density compared to urban areas. This scarcity necessitates careful examination of existing primary care practices. The analysis considers the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code, comparing it to the estimated population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and routine screenings, crucial for early lung cancer detection.

Standout practices within the area are assessed based on several criteria. This includes the availability of comprehensive services, such as on-site X-ray or CT scan capabilities, which are critical for lung cancer screening. Practices that offer these services streamline the diagnostic process, reducing the need for patients to travel to distant facilities. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, adhering to current guidelines (e.g., those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for high-risk individuals), is another key indicator of a proactive approach. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are evaluated. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, improving care coordination and potentially speeding up referrals to specialists, such as pulmonologists or oncologists.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or initial consultations in certain cases, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms are given a higher score, reflecting their commitment to providing accessible and convenient care. The analysis considers the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are a crucial, yet often overlooked, component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, counselors) or established partnerships with mental health providers receive a higher score. This integration ensures that patients have access to the emotional support they need during their cancer journey. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also considered, as these groups provide a valuable source of peer support and information.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the practice’s commitment to patient education. Practices that provide educational materials about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options are given a higher score. This includes providing information on smoking cessation programs and resources. Patient education empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards their health and make informed decisions about their care. The accessibility of these materials, whether in print, online, or through patient portals, is also assessed.

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Gilberton is evaluated. This includes the proximity to hospitals and specialized cancer centers. The availability of transportation options for patients, particularly those with limited mobility or without access to personal vehicles, is also considered. The presence of community health initiatives focused on cancer awareness and prevention further enhances the score.

The analysis acknowledges the limitations of this assessment. Data availability can be a challenge, and the information gathered may not fully represent the nuances of each practice. The score should be viewed as an indicator of the local healthcare ecosystem's strengths and weaknesses, rather than a definitive judgment. The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and adapt to new technologies and patient needs.

The final Lung Cancer Score for Gilberton (ZIP Code 17934) is a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in facilitating early detection, diagnosis, and supportive care for lung cancer patients. The specific weighting methodology is proprietary, but the overall goal is to provide a comprehensive and informative assessment.

This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the primary care landscape in Gilberton and its potential impact on lung cancer care. It highlights areas where the community excels and identifies opportunities for improvement. By focusing on physician availability, access to services, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient education, this analysis provides a valuable framework for evaluating and enhancing the local healthcare ecosystem.

The findings of this analysis can be visualized and explored further using advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources and patient access. By leveraging the power of geospatial analysis, CartoChrome maps can reveal patterns and insights that might not be apparent through traditional methods.

**Explore the healthcare landscape of Gilberton and surrounding areas with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, access to care, and the availability of supportive services. Contact us today to learn more about how CartoChrome maps can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data.**