17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.33 percent of the residents in 17979 has some form of health insurance. 18.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.30 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 17979 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 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17979. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,194 health care providers accessible to residents in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Summit Station, PA (ZIP Code 17979)**

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape of Summit Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17979), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We'll assess the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components in the early detection, treatment, and support of individuals facing this disease. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients. In Summit Station, assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are critical for early lung cancer detection in high-risk individuals.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This involves evaluating the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, smoking cessation counseling, and referral practices. Do local PCPs routinely offer or recommend LDCT scans for eligible patients, following guidelines set by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Are they equipped to provide or refer patients to effective smoking cessation programs? These factors significantly impact the likelihood of early diagnosis and successful treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services can be used to estimate these ratios for ZIP code 17979 and surrounding areas. The analysis should compare these ratios to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care physicians.

Identifying standout practices within the Summit Station area is crucial. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to preventative care, patient education, and a holistic approach to health. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, utilize electronic health records effectively, and demonstrate a patient-centered approach are often more likely to provide superior care. This can be assessed through online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data on practice performance.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Summit Station. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and offer mental health services, all of which are essential for lung cancer patients. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care and improving patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can trigger a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services in Summit Station, including the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services for patients with limited mobility or transportation challenges.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system. Do local practices offer integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work alongside PCPs and oncologists? Are there support groups or other resources available for lung cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease.

The availability of specialized lung cancer care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, specialists are essential for diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and ongoing management. The analysis should identify the presence of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance of Summit Station and assess their qualifications, experience, and affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers.

Smoking cessation programs are a crucial element of lung cancer prevention and treatment. These programs provide patients with the tools and support they need to quit smoking, reducing their risk of developing lung cancer and improving their chances of successful treatment if they are already diagnosed. The analysis should assess the availability of smoking cessation programs in Summit Station, including the types of programs offered, the qualifications of the providers, and the success rates of the programs.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape of Summit Station, PA (ZIP code 17979) presents a complex picture in terms of lung cancer care. While the presence of primary care physicians and access to specialized services are essential, the analysis should also consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and smoking cessation programs. A comprehensive assessment of these factors provides a more complete understanding of the local healthcare environment and highlights areas needing improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Summit Station and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the distribution of population demographics, explore CartoChrome maps. They can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.