18071, Palmerton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18071, Palmerton, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.12 percent of the residents in 18071 has some form of health insurance. 38.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.17 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 18071 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,074 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18071. An estimate of 35 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,266 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 18071, Palmerton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Palmerton, PA (ZIP Code 18071)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Palmerton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18071). The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, and the broader healthcare landscape, with a particular emphasis on factors that can impact patient outcomes in the context of a potential lung cancer diagnosis. The objective is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of this disease and the importance of timely access to comprehensive care.

The core of this analysis revolves around the availability of primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Their ability to effectively screen, diagnose, and refer patients is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio within Palmerton is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, when combined with information on physician listings and practice sizes, can provide a preliminary estimate of this ratio. Further investigation into the specific practices of PCPs in the area is necessary to refine this assessment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This includes factors like the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk of lung cancer (e.g., those with a history of smoking). Practices that proactively offer or facilitate low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, a crucial diagnostic tool, demonstrate a commitment to early detection. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and hospitals is also a key factor. Practices with robust EHR systems improve care coordination and reduce the potential for errors.

Standout practices within Palmerton would ideally exhibit several characteristics. They would have a demonstrated track record of patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews and testimonials. They would actively participate in continuing medical education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer screening and treatment. They would have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists within a reasonable geographic distance. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems, with integrated services and resources, often have an advantage in terms of access to specialists and advanced diagnostic tools.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can improve access to care, particularly for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for early detection of complications and improved management of symptoms. The availability of telemedicine options is especially important for patients with lung cancer, who may experience fatigue and other symptoms that make travel difficult.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within Palmerton and the surrounding areas is crucial. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, or that have established referral networks with mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ability to access support groups and other peer-to-peer resources can also be beneficial for patients and their families.

The analysis of primary care availability extends beyond the immediate vicinity of Palmerton. The accessibility of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, in nearby towns and cities is a critical factor. The travel time to these specialists, and the availability of transportation options, can significantly impact patient outcomes. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers, with multidisciplinary teams of specialists, is also a positive indicator. These centers often offer access to clinical trials and other advanced treatment options.

Evaluating the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Palmerton requires a nuanced approach. It is not simply a matter of counting doctors or assessing the number of specialists. It is about understanding the interconnectedness of the healthcare system and how well it supports patients throughout their journey, from initial screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. The score should reflect the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall patient experience.

Data sources for this analysis include, but are not limited to, the US Census Bureau, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), physician directories, and online patient reviews. The accuracy of this score is dependent on the availability and reliability of this data.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape of Palmerton, PA, from a lung cancer perspective requires a holistic view. The availability of primary care, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources are all vital components. Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, and the accessibility of specialist care are all critical factors in determining the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area.

To gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant healthcare data within Palmerton and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a dynamic and insightful visualization of healthcare resources, providing a deeper understanding of the landscape.