The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18102, Allentown, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 84.91 percent of the residents in 18102 has some form of health insurance. 58.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.45 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 18102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 17,082 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 20 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18102. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,583 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 28,793 health care providers accessible to residents in 18102, Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18102, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Lung Cancer Score | 58 |
---|---|
People Score | 1 |
Provider Score | 92 |
Hospital Score | 57 |
Travel Score | 54 |
18102 | Allentown | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Allentown, PA (ZIP Code 18102)
This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Allentown, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18102 ZIP code, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care and primary care availability. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the holistic treatment of lung cancer patients.
Allentown, like many urban areas, faces the challenge of ensuring adequate healthcare access for its population. The prevalence of lung cancer, a serious disease often diagnosed in later stages, underscores the importance of robust primary care, early detection, and comprehensive treatment options. The analysis will consider the overall healthcare environment to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Within the 18102 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians needs careful scrutiny. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and local hospital networks will be essential to determine the current ratio and identify any areas of concern. This data will be cross-referenced with national benchmarks to assess the relative availability of primary care in Allentown.
The presence of standout practices is another important factor. These practices are defined by their commitment to patient-centered care, their utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and their positive patient outcomes. Identifying practices with a strong focus on early detection, such as those offering low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial. These practices often have dedicated oncology teams, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists, providing a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Investigating the accreditation status of local hospitals and cancer centers, such as those accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care.
Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the context of lung cancer care. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to specialists, especially for patients in underserved areas, and the convenience of remote consultations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in the 18102 ZIP code is vital. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve patient access and reduce the burden of travel for follow-up appointments.
Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for supporting patients and their families. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of specialized oncology support groups, and the accessibility of mental health services through local hospitals and community organizations is essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.
Primary care availability in Allentown is a key determinant of lung cancer care. Primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection through routine screenings and referrals to specialists. The analysis will assess the ease of access to primary care physicians in the 18102 ZIP code, including appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of after-hours care. The presence of community health centers and free clinics, which often serve vulnerable populations, will also be considered.
The overall healthcare infrastructure in Allentown, including the presence of specialized cancer centers, diagnostic facilities, and rehabilitation services, will be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET scans and MRI machines, and the presence of dedicated lung cancer treatment programs. The integration of these resources into a coordinated care system is essential for providing comprehensive and effective treatment.
The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact lung cancer care. Factors such as poverty, lack of insurance coverage, and limited access to transportation can create barriers to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. Examining the demographic characteristics of the 18102 ZIP code, including income levels, insurance coverage rates, and the prevalence of smoking, will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by patients in this area.
By integrating data from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and patient advocacy groups, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Allentown, PA, specifically within the 18102 ZIP code. This includes a thorough evaluation of the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available to lung cancer patients and identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance the quality of care.
For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Allentown, including the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps.
**Click here to explore the healthcare data for Allentown, PA, and surrounding areas using CartoChrome maps.**
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like