18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.56 percent of the residents in 18077 has some form of health insurance. 35.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.88 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 18077 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18077. An estimate of 55 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 558 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37,007 health care providers accessible to residents in 18077, Riegelsville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Riegelsville, PA (ZIP Code 18077)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Riegelsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18077) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability and quality of primary care, which serves as the crucial first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at risk of developing the disease. We will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for this specific geographic area. This score, though not a single number, will reflect the overall strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in supporting patients facing this challenging illness.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first to identify potential issues. A high physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a larger number of patients per PCP, can strain resources and potentially delay timely screenings and referrals. In Riegelsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards will be used to determine the availability of PCPs within and immediately surrounding the 18077 ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs relative to the population, could negatively impact the 'Lung Cancer Score' by hindering access to initial consultations and preventative care. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting more readily available PCPs, would positively influence the score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening recommendations for at-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote these services, adhering to guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), would receive higher marks. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will consider factors like the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care between PCPs and specialists. We will assess the presence of dedicated patient navigators within practices, as these individuals can be invaluable in guiding patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

Identifying standout practices within the 18077 area is essential. This involves researching practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in areas related to lung cancer. This includes assessing their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, their commitment to patient education, and their responsiveness to patient needs. Practices that have established strong relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists would receive higher scores. We will look for practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and consistently seek patient feedback to enhance their services.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Riegelsville. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, offer remote monitoring, and provide access to specialists through telehealth platforms can significantly impact the timeliness and convenience of care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (store-and-forward) services, will be viewed favorably. We will evaluate the availability of telehealth for both primary care and specialist consultations, as well as the ease of access to these services for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, will be given higher ratings. The 'Lung Cancer Score' will assess the availability of mental health support, including individual therapy, support groups, and access to psychiatric care, for patients and their families.

The availability of specialized lung cancer care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a significant factor. While this analysis focuses on primary care availability, the proximity and accessibility of these specialists are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. We will assess the distance to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers, as well as the availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy and surgical oncology. Practices with established referral pathways to these specialists would receive higher scores.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population in Riegelsville. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and smoking prevalence can significantly impact the risk of lung cancer and the need for healthcare services. The analysis will incorporate data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources to understand the specific needs of the population and tailor the recommendations accordingly.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Riegelsville, PA (ZIP code 18077) is not a simple ranking but a nuanced assessment of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support patients facing this disease. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care. By understanding these factors, we can identify areas of strength and weakness and work towards improving access to high-quality lung cancer care for all residents of Riegelsville.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of Riegelsville and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to utilize the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.