17985, Zion Grove, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17985, Zion Grove, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.60 percent of the residents in 17985 has some form of health insurance. 33.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.98 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 17985 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 287 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17985. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 310 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,424 health care providers accessible to residents in 17985, Zion Grove, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Zion Grove, PA (ZIP Code 17985)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources in Zion Grove, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17985), focusing on factors crucial for lung cancer care. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering physician availability, particularly primary care, and the accessibility of supportive services. This examination will help understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem concerning lung cancer patients.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection and appropriate referrals are critical. In Zion Grove, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. Determining this requires data on the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code or serving the area, and the estimated population. A higher ratio (more patients per doctor) can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This data is crucial for understanding the baseline level of access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care must be evaluated. This involves assessing the types of services offered by local practices. Do they offer comprehensive physical exams, including screenings for lung cancer? Do they have relationships with local specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, for prompt referrals? Furthermore, the ability to schedule appointments efficiently is a critical factor. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes.

Standout practices within Zion Grove should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, potentially through factors like: patient satisfaction scores, participation in quality improvement programs, and a commitment to providing comprehensive care. These practices could be recognized for their ability to offer a patient-centered approach, which is essential for navigating the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of this analysis. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Zion Grove. Does the area have PCPs and specialists who offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? The presence of telemedicine services can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments due to their illness or other factors.

Mental health resources are also an essential component of the “Lung Cancer Score.” A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical for supporting patients throughout their journey. Are there mental health professionals within the area or easily accessible via referral? Are there support groups specific to cancer patients? The presence of these resources can improve the overall well-being of patients.

The analysis must also consider the availability of diagnostic imaging services. Access to CT scans, PET scans, and other imaging technologies is essential for diagnosing and staging lung cancer. The proximity of these services to Zion Grove is critical. If patients need to travel long distances for imaging, it can create added stress and delay diagnosis.

Furthermore, it is important to assess the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers. While Zion Grove may not have its own oncology center, the proximity to such centers in nearby cities or towns is crucial. The ability to access specialized treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, is a determining factor in patient outcomes. The ease of referral and coordination of care between primary care physicians and these specialized centers is also essential.

The assessment should also consider the availability of supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs, palliative care, and financial assistance. Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, and access to smoking cessation programs can help prevent new cases. Palliative care can improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer, and financial assistance can help alleviate the financial burden of treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite measure reflecting these factors. It would not only quantify the availability of resources but also assess their quality and accessibility. This score would provide a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in Zion Grove, PA (17985).

To improve the accuracy and depth of this analysis, it is essential to gather data from various sources. This includes data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospitals and clinics, insurance providers, and patient advocacy groups. Patient surveys and interviews can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers with the information needed to improve lung cancer care in Zion Grove. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, it can help inform strategies to enhance access to care, improve patient outcomes, and ultimately save lives.

To visualize and explore the spatial relationships of healthcare resources in Zion Grove and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.