18222, Drums, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.74 percent of the residents in 18222 has some form of health insurance. 36.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.50 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 18222 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,109 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18222. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,886 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,583 health care providers accessible to residents in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222)**

The following analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 18222, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Drums, PA, and its capacity to serve individuals facing this challenging disease.

Drums, Pennsylvania, a small community, presents a unique healthcare environment. The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational aspect of this analysis. Early detection and effective management of lung cancer often depend on the accessibility of primary care providers. A high concentration of primary care physicians within a given area generally translates to improved access to screening, preventative care, and timely referrals to specialists. Conversely, a scarcity of primary care providers can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. A favorable ratio, meaning a higher number of physicians per capita, suggests a greater likelihood of patients receiving prompt and personalized care. This is particularly important in the context of lung cancer, where timely intervention is often crucial. The analysis will delve into the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 18222, comparing it to regional and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of healthcare services.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves assessing the quality of care provided, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the overall patient experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection through regular screenings, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and offer comprehensive treatment options, including access to clinical trials, are considered highly valuable. The analysis will highlight specific practices in the Drums area that excel in these areas, providing patients with a clear understanding of their options.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care by enabling remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. This is especially relevant for lung cancer patients, who may require frequent monitoring and consultations. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by healthcare providers in ZIP code 18222, and its impact on patient care.

Mental health resources play a vital role in supporting individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of this disease can be emotionally and psychologically taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is therefore crucial for patients' overall well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of these resources within the Drums area, highlighting any gaps in service and identifying organizations that provide support to patients and their families.

The evaluation will consider the presence of lung cancer screening programs. These programs, often involving low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are crucial for early detection, particularly for individuals at high risk, such as current or former smokers. The availability and accessibility of these screening programs within the Drums area will be a key factor in assessing the overall quality of lung cancer care.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the referral pathways available to patients. This includes the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Efficient referral pathways are essential for ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis will consider the proximity of specialist centers, the waiting times for appointments, and the overall efficiency of the referral process.

The evaluation will also consider the availability of supportive care services. This includes access to palliative care, which focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, and rehabilitation services, which can help patients regain their strength and function after treatment. The availability of these services is crucial for improving the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

The analysis will also take into account the presence of community resources that support lung cancer patients. This includes support groups, educational programs, and patient advocacy organizations. These resources can provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance.

The healthcare landscape in Drums, PA, is shaped by its rural setting. This can present both challenges and opportunities. The limited population density may result in fewer healthcare providers and resources compared to more urban areas. However, the close-knit community may also foster a strong sense of support and collaboration among healthcare providers.

The analysis will also consider the role of insurance coverage in accessing lung cancer care. The affordability of healthcare services is a significant factor for many patients. The analysis will assess the availability of insurance options in the Drums area, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, and their impact on patient access to care.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on lung cancer outcomes. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, education level, and access to healthy food, can significantly influence a patient's health. The analysis will examine the prevalence of these factors in the Drums area and their potential impact on lung cancer outcomes.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, incorporating all of the factors discussed above. It will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare resources available in ZIP code 18222, and their capacity to serve individuals facing lung cancer. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing patients and healthcare providers to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in Drums, PA, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and user-friendly platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.