18063, Martins Creek, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18063, Martins Creek, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18063 has some form of health insurance. 41.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.03 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 18063 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 38 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18063. An estimate of 97 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 126 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 34,787 health care providers accessible to residents in 18063, Martins Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Martins Creek, PA (ZIP Code 18063)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within Martins Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18063), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The evaluation considers primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive and accessible care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Martins Creek, as a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in ensuring adequate primary care physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This necessitates a careful examination of the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 18063 ZIP code and the surrounding areas that serve the community. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from local hospitals and clinics, is essential to determine this ratio accurately.

Beyond the raw numbers, the geographic distribution of primary care practices is also vital. Are these practices concentrated in a single area, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making them accessible to residents regardless of their location? Accessibility is further impacted by factors such as transportation options and the presence of any physical barriers to care. The availability of public transportation, the proximity of practices to residential areas, and the physical accessibility of the facilities themselves are all factors that contribute to the overall accessibility of primary care services.

Within the 18063 ZIP code, a detailed examination of individual practices is warranted. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their approach to patient care, specifically concerning lung cancer screening and early detection. This includes assessing their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, their use of advanced diagnostic tools, and their commitment to patient education. Practices that proactively offer lung cancer screenings to eligible patients, utilize low-dose CT scans, and provide comprehensive information about risk factors and prevention strategies are likely to be considered leaders in this area.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can enhance access to care by reducing the need for travel, improving convenience, and expanding the reach of specialists. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and even remote monitoring of patients' symptoms. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Martins Creek is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into the existing care workflow.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among patients. The integration of mental health resources into the care continuum is therefore paramount. This includes the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who can provide counseling, support groups, and other forms of mental health treatment. An analysis of the mental health resources available within Martins Creek and the surrounding areas is essential. This involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the ease with which patients can access these services. The presence of integrated behavioral health programs within primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it allows for seamless coordination between physical and mental healthcare.

The availability of support groups and patient education programs is also a critical aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. Support groups provide patients with a safe space to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others who are facing similar challenges. Patient education programs equip patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively, including information about treatment options, side effects, and lifestyle modifications. An assessment of the availability of these resources within Martins Creek and the surrounding areas is vital.

The analysis should also consider the role of local hospitals and cancer centers in providing lung cancer care. The presence of a hospital or cancer center with specialized lung cancer treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, is a significant advantage. The proximity of these facilities to Martins Creek and the ease with which patients can access them are important factors to consider. Collaboration between primary care practices, hospitals, and cancer centers is essential to ensure seamless care coordination and optimal patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of palliative care services is a critical component of lung cancer care, especially for patients with advanced disease. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and their families by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The availability of palliative care services within Martins Creek and the surrounding areas, including hospice care, should be assessed.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in Martins Creek, PA (ZIP code 18063) requires a multi-faceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical factors. Identifying standout practices, evaluating the accessibility of care, and assessing the availability of support services are also essential. This detailed analysis provides a foundation for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment and identifying areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Martins Creek, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a dynamic and informative way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.