17949, Mahanoy Plane, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17949, Mahanoy Plane, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.03 percent of the residents in 17949 has some form of health insurance. 66.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.91 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 17949 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 17949. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 47 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,905 health care providers accessible to residents in 17949, Mahanoy Plane, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mahanoy Plane, PA (ZIP Code 17949)

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of lung cancer care accessibility and quality for residents of Mahanoy Plane, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17949). We examine the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to evaluate the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific community, recognizing that early detection and comprehensive care are critical for positive patient outcomes.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care begins with access to primary care. In Mahanoy Plane, the availability of primary care physicians is a significant factor. The analysis will consider the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 17949 ZIP code and the surrounding areas that residents typically access for healthcare. The geographical distribution of these physicians is also crucial, assessing whether they are concentrated in one area or spread throughout the community, allowing for convenient access for all residents. Transportation challenges, particularly for elderly or low-income individuals, must be considered when evaluating accessibility.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital indicator of healthcare accessibility. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis will determine the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17949 ZIP code and compare it to regional and national averages. This comparison provides a benchmark to understand whether residents of Mahanoy Plane have adequate access to primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, utilize innovative diagnostic techniques, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support. The analysis will investigate practices within and around the 17949 ZIP code that specialize in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This includes evaluating the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, and the presence of multidisciplinary teams involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists. Patient testimonials and online reviews will also be examined to gauge patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists serving the Mahanoy Plane community. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing them to access specialist consultations, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without having to travel long distances. The integration of telemedicine into routine care is a key indicator of a progressive and patient-centered healthcare system.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources for patients in Mahanoy Plane. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or chronic illness. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for addressing the emotional distress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a lung cancer diagnosis. Access to these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Mahanoy Plane will be a composite of these factors. A high score indicates excellent access to primary care, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis will provide a clear picture of the current state of healthcare in the community, highlighting areas of strength and areas that need improvement.

Specific examples are crucial for a meaningful analysis. If a particular primary care practice in the area has implemented a robust lung cancer screening program using low-dose CT scans and has a high rate of early-stage diagnoses, this would be a significant positive factor. Similarly, if a local hospital offers a multidisciplinary lung cancer clinic with access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, this would also contribute to a higher score. Conversely, if residents have to travel long distances to access specialist care or if there are significant wait times for appointments, this would negatively impact the score. The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials, support groups, and financial assistance programs, as these resources play a crucial role in supporting patients throughout their cancer journey.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. The prevalence of lung cancer is often higher in communities with lower socioeconomic status, and these individuals may face additional barriers to accessing healthcare, such as lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, and limited health literacy. The analysis will assess whether the healthcare system in Mahanoy Plane is addressing these disparities and providing equitable access to care for all residents.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The analysis will also identify specific recommendations for improving lung cancer care in Mahanoy Plane, such as expanding access to primary care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and increasing the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to empower the community to take proactive steps to improve the health and well-being of its residents.

Ultimately, this analysis is designed to be a catalyst for positive change. By providing a detailed assessment of the current state of lung cancer care in Mahanoy Plane, we hope to encourage collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to create a more patient-centered and effective healthcare system. The analysis will provide a roadmap for improving access to care, enhancing the quality of treatment, and ultimately, improving patient outcomes.

To visualize these findings and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Mahanoy Plane and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding healthcare accessibility and identifying areas where improvements are needed. Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.