18220, Delano, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18220, Delano, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.02 percent of the residents in 18220 has some form of health insurance. 33.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.58 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 18220 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18220. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,590 health care providers accessible to residents in 18220, Delano, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Delano, PA (ZIP Code 18220)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Delano, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18220), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will assess the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, and the broader healthcare ecosystem to formulate a 'Lung Cancer Score' for the area. This score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the observed strengths and weaknesses of the available resources.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway lies in accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is crucial for improved survival rates. A robust PCP network is the first line of defense, responsible for screening, risk assessment, and referral to specialists. In Delano, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for individuals at risk. The population of Delano, coupled with the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and immediately surrounding areas, provides the baseline for this assessment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. We need to consider the adoption of evidence-based practices. This includes the consistent application of lung cancer screening guidelines for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Are PCPs proactively recommending low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? Are they thoroughly documenting smoking history and other risk factors? Are they offering smoking cessation support? The level of adherence to these guidelines directly impacts the likelihood of early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Another significant aspect is the presence and integration of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers a crucial bridge, especially in rural areas. It expands access to care, reduces travel burdens, and can facilitate specialist consultations. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of PCPs in Delano is vital. Do they offer virtual appointments for follow-ups or consultations? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies for patients undergoing treatment or managing chronic conditions? The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the local healthcare system contributes significantly to the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Mental health support is often overlooked, but it is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for patient well-being. We need to assess the proximity of mental health providers to Delano, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of specialized mental health services for cancer patients. The ease of access to these services directly influences the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate exceptional commitment to patient care, innovative approaches to screening and treatment, or a strong emphasis on patient education and support. Identifying these practices can highlight best practices and provide a model for other healthcare providers in the region. We need to look for practices that are actively involved in community outreach, patient education programs, and collaborations with specialists.

The presence of specialized oncology services is also a critical factor. While PCPs are the gatekeepers, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists to Delano, the quality of their services, and the coordination of care between primary care and specialist providers are all essential components of the 'Lung Cancer Score.' The availability of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology services within a reasonable distance is also a factor.

The overall healthcare ecosystem in Delano, including hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies, plays a vital role in supporting lung cancer patients. The efficiency and accessibility of these resources directly impact the patient experience and the quality of care. We must assess the availability of advanced imaging technologies, the responsiveness of diagnostic services, and the ease of access to medications and other essential resources.

Patient education and empowerment are also crucial. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, treatment options, and support resources are more likely to actively participate in their care and experience better outcomes. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Delano, PA (ZIP code 18220) is a complex assessment that considers a multitude of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized oncology services all contribute to the overall score. The quality of the healthcare ecosystem, including hospitals, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies, also plays a vital role. The presence of standout practices and the availability of patient education and empowerment resources further enhance the score. Based on this analysis, we can identify areas of strength and weakness within the local healthcare system and recommend improvements to enhance the quality of lung cancer care in Delano.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Delano, including the location of PCPs, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a detailed overview of the healthcare resources available in the area, allowing you to visualize the factors discussed in this analysis.