17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17943 has some form of health insurance. 14.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.71 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 17943 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 17943. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,794 health care providers accessible to residents in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17943 & Lavelle Primary Care

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17943, focusing on the availability and quality of care relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment, with a specific emphasis on primary care resources in the Lavelle area. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the accessibility and support available to patients within this region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure, where patients can access regular check-ups, screenings, and referrals to specialists. In Lavelle, understanding the primary care availability is critical. Are there enough primary care physicians (PCPs) to meet the needs of the population? This is a crucial first step in determining the potential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder proactive care. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17943 and, more particularly, in Lavelle, is paramount. This data will illuminate the potential for patients to readily access primary care services. Public health data, county health departments, and state medical boards are primary resources for this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the existing practices well-equipped to handle potential lung cancer cases? Do they offer comprehensive physical exams, including thorough respiratory assessments? Do they have established protocols for ordering lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose CT scans, for at-risk individuals? The presence of these protocols and a commitment to preventative care are vital.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices known for their patient-centered care, their commitment to preventative medicine, and their responsiveness to patient needs. Are there practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores? Do they have a strong track record of early cancer detection and successful referrals to specialists? Reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local community health organizations, and contacting the practices directly can provide valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely can be a game-changer, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Does ZIP Code 17943 have practices that offer telehealth consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations for potential lung cancer concerns? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

The availability of mental health resources is also a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Are there mental health professionals available in the area who specialize in cancer care? Do primary care practices have established referral pathways to these resources? Integrating mental health support into the overall care plan is essential for patient well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, patients often require the expertise of specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Assessing the proximity of these specialists to Lavelle and the ease of referral from primary care practices is essential.

The presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can significantly enhance the quality of life for lung cancer patients. These groups provide a forum for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences, share information, and receive emotional support. Are there local support groups or chapters of national organizations like the American Lung Association or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation active in the area?

The integration of technology into healthcare is constantly evolving. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate seamless communication between healthcare providers, allowing for better coordination of care and improved patient outcomes. Do the primary care practices in Lavelle utilize EHRs? Do they have systems in place for sharing patient information with specialists and other healthcare providers?

The availability of transportation services is another factor that can impact access to care. For patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments, the availability of transportation assistance can be a crucial lifeline. Are there local organizations or programs that offer transportation services for medical appointments?

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the cost of care and insurance coverage are also important considerations. The financial burden of cancer treatment can be significant, and patients need to understand their insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs. Does the area have resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare costs?

Finally, the overall community health environment plays a role. Factors such as air quality, exposure to environmental toxins, and smoking rates can impact lung cancer risk. Understanding the prevalence of these factors within ZIP Code 17943 and Lavelle can provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare environment in ZIP Code 17943, with a focus on Lavelle’s primary care resources, requires a comprehensive approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care and support services. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17943 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, enabling a more informed assessment of the area's healthcare infrastructure. **Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze healthcare data in ZIP Code 17943 and beyond.**