17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.93 percent of the residents in 17953 has some form of health insurance. 43.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.24 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 17953 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17953. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 852 health care providers accessible to residents in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Middleport, PA (ZIP Code 17953)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Middleport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17953), specifically focusing on factors impacting lung cancer care, reveals a complex picture. The availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine are crucial determinants of patient access and the overall quality of care. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on strong primary care. In Middleport, primary care availability is a critical concern. The limited number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with an aging population, likely translates to a less-than-ideal physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, a key indicator of access, directly impacts the ability of patients to secure timely appointments for screenings, diagnosis, and ongoing management. Delays in accessing care can have significant consequences, particularly in the context of a disease like lung cancer where early detection is paramount.

The absence of readily available data on the exact number of primary care physicians and the patient population within 17953 makes precise quantification of the physician-to-patient ratio challenging. However, anecdotal evidence and broader regional trends suggest that the ratio may be unfavorable. This situation underscores the need for proactive measures to improve access to primary care services.

One of the most significant challenges in Middleport, and many rural communities, is the availability of specialized care. While primary care forms the cornerstone of preventative medicine and initial screening, the management of lung cancer necessitates access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and specialized diagnostic facilities. The absence of these specialists within the immediate ZIP code forces patients to travel, often considerable distances, to receive the necessary care. This travel burden can be a significant barrier, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations.

The adoption of telemedicine offers a potential solution to mitigate some of the access challenges. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, allows patients to consult with specialists without the need for extensive travel. The extent of telemedicine adoption among physicians in 17953 is a critical factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources, are likely to score higher.

However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on several factors. These include the availability of reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the willingness of physicians to integrate telemedicine into their practice. Addressing these barriers is crucial to maximizing the benefits of telemedicine in this specific context.

Beyond the availability of physicians and technology, the integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology support is essential. This support can help patients cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The presence of these resources, whether integrated within primary care practices or available through referrals, significantly impacts the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within 17953, or those serving patients in this ZIP code, is a complex task. The absence of readily available, publicly accessible data on individual practice performance makes it difficult to assess the quality of care provided by specific physicians or groups. However, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening, and the utilization of technology are likely to stand out. These practices often prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive support services, and actively participate in community outreach programs.

The Lung Cancer Score for Middleport, PA (17953) is therefore a composite measure reflecting the interplay of several factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score is also influenced by the presence of standout practices that prioritize patient-centered care and leverage technology to improve access and outcomes. The overall picture suggests a need for improvements in several areas to ensure that residents have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to attract and retain primary care physicians, promote the adoption of telemedicine, and expand access to mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the challenges and improve the overall quality of care.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. The absence of comprehensive, publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and specific practice performance makes it difficult to provide a precise and definitive Lung Cancer Score. Future assessments would benefit from access to more granular data.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Middleport, PA (17953), and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing users to explore the availability of healthcare providers, the location of diagnostic facilities, and other relevant information. This interactive approach can provide a valuable tool for understanding the complex factors that influence lung cancer care in this specific community.