17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.71 percent of the residents in 17935 has some form of health insurance. 50.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.03 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 17935 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 306 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17935. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 328 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Girardville, PA (ZIP Code 17935)**

Girardville, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care resources relevant to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment within the 17935 ZIP code. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering factors like physician density, access to specialized care, and the integration of modern healthcare practices.

The foundation of lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals, significantly improves survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. In Girardville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key factor. Data suggests a potential scarcity of PCPs within the immediate vicinity. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely access to crucial screenings and consultations. Patients may need to travel outside the borough to access primary care, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

The presence of standout primary care practices is essential. These practices should ideally demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including proactively screening for lung cancer risk factors like smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards. They should also be equipped to offer or facilitate access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening tool for high-risk individuals. The quality of these practices can be gauged by factors like patient satisfaction scores, adherence to clinical guidelines, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. It enables remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in Girardville can significantly enhance patient convenience and facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers. This is especially important for patients who may have mobility issues or difficulty traveling to in-person appointments.

Mental health resources play an often-overlooked but vital role in lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support, such as counseling services and access to psychiatrists, is crucial for patients navigating this difficult journey. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Girardville (17935) is impacted by the limited physician density. The scarcity of PCPs necessitates an evaluation of the nearest healthcare facilities outside the borough. The score also considers the level of telemedicine adoption among local practices. The adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor in mitigating the challenges of limited access.

The score also reflects the availability of mental health support services. Primary care practices that integrate mental health screening and referral services are a significant advantage. The presence of these resources is a crucial factor in the overall quality of care. The lack of these resources would negatively impact the score.

The overall “Lung Cancer Score” for Girardville, PA (17935) is moderate. While the presence of some primary care practices and the potential for access to specialized care exists, the limited physician density and the need for patients to travel outside the borough for certain services pose significant challenges. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are crucial areas for improvement. The score reflects the need for proactive measures to enhance access to care and improve patient outcomes.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is not a static measure. It is dynamic and can change over time. The score should be used as a tool to assess the current state of healthcare resources in Girardville and to identify areas for improvement. The score can also be used to monitor progress over time.

The score should be considered in conjunction with other factors. These include the socioeconomic status of the population, the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, and the availability of public health programs. The score should be used to inform decision-making and to guide the allocation of resources.

The analysis highlights the need for strategic interventions to improve lung cancer care in Girardville. These interventions could include initiatives to attract more PCPs to the area, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase the availability of mental health support services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to achieve these goals.

The analysis emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to improve access to care and improve patient outcomes. The score serves as a tool for assessing the current state of healthcare resources. The score also identifies areas for improvement. The score should be used to inform decision-making.

The challenges faced by Girardville in providing comprehensive lung cancer care are not unique to this community. Many rural and underserved areas face similar obstacles. The lessons learned from Girardville can be applied to other communities facing similar challenges. The focus should be on improving access to care, promoting early detection, and providing comprehensive support to patients.

The implementation of these strategies will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and patient-centered. The aim is to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Girardville and beyond.

For a more detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in Girardville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and access to screening facilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape, empowering you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health.