18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18046 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18046 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 45 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18046. An estimate of 72 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 26,480 health care providers accessible to residents in 18046, East Texas, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18046 & Primary Care in East Texas

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care access, focusing on two distinct areas: doctors practicing within ZIP code 18046 and the broader context of primary care availability across East Texas. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial to effective cancer treatment and overall well-being. The analysis will then conclude with a call to action for utilizing CartoChrome maps for further exploration.

The ZIP code 18046, presumably a specific geographic area, will be assessed based on the availability of qualified medical professionals. A key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, ideally, should be calculated specifically for oncologists, pulmonologists, and primary care physicians (PCPs). A high ratio, indicating a limited number of specialists relative to the population, can create significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. Delays in accessing these specialists can negatively impact patient outcomes in lung cancer cases.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis will investigate the types of practices available. Are there large, multi-specialty groups that offer a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy? Or are patients primarily reliant on smaller, independent practices? The presence of integrated care models, where different specialists collaborate seamlessly, is a significant advantage. This collaborative approach can lead to more coordinated treatment plans and improved patient experiences.

The quality of care is also a critical factor. This involves researching the reputation of the practices, considering patient reviews, and looking for accreditations from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC). Accreditation signifies that a facility meets rigorous standards for cancer care, including having a multidisciplinary team and offering supportive services.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. The ability to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some forms of therapy remotely can be a game-changer for patients, particularly those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate ongoing communication between patients and their care teams. The analysis will examine the extent to which practices in 18046 offer telemedicine services and the types of services provided.

Moving to the broader context of East Texas, the primary care landscape plays a vital role in lung cancer care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential signs of lung cancer, order appropriate screenings (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists is crucial for early detection and intervention.

The analysis will assess the overall availability of PCPs in East Texas, considering factors like geographic distribution and appointment wait times. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may face challenges in timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will also explore the level of awareness among PCPs regarding lung cancer screening guidelines and their willingness to advocate for their patients.

Furthermore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of lung cancer care, particularly in East Texas. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through their treatment journey. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services in the region, including the presence of oncology-specific support groups and mental health professionals who specialize in cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the availability of supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs, nutritional counseling, and palliative care. These services can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and help them manage the side effects of treatment.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will consider all these factors, weighting them based on their relative importance to patient outcomes. The score will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care in the specified areas. The score will be based on publicly available data and information.

Identifying standout practices within 18046 is also a key component. This involves recognizing practices that demonstrate excellence in several areas. This could include practices with a high volume of lung cancer patients, a strong track record of successful treatment outcomes, and a commitment to patient-centered care.

The analysis will also look at practices that are actively involved in research or clinical trials. Participation in research can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care.

The evaluation will consider the availability of patient education resources, such as educational materials, support groups, and online resources. Empowering patients with knowledge about their disease and treatment options can help them make informed decisions and actively participate in their care.

The analysis will also examine the integration of technology in patient care, such as the use of electronic health records, patient portals, and mobile health applications. These technologies can improve communication, streamline workflows, and enhance patient engagement.

The analysis will also consider the cultural competence of healthcare providers. Lung cancer disproportionately affects certain populations, and it is important that healthcare providers are sensitive to the cultural and linguistic needs of their patients.

Finally, the analysis will consider the affordability of care. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and the availability of financial assistance programs and insurance coverage is crucial for ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

The information gathered will be synthesized to provide a comprehensive assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in the specified areas. This analysis will serve as a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement.

For a more in-depth exploration of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps allow for a visual representation of the data, facilitating a deeper understanding of the factors influencing lung cancer care access and outcomes.