18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.13 percent of the residents in 18229 has some form of health insurance. 40.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.26 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 18229 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,662 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18229. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,133 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,522 health care providers accessible to residents in 18229, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Jim Thorpe, PA (ZIP Code 18229)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support within Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18229). The focus is on primary care physician (PCP) availability, physician quality, and the presence of supportive services, all crucial factors impacting patient outcomes. A “Lung Cancer Score” is not a formal, standardized metric. Instead, this analysis synthesizes available data to offer a qualitative understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referral to specialists are vital. In Jim Thorpe, the availability of PCPs is a critical initial factor. Data analysis reveals that the physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create barriers to timely appointments and preventative care. This can negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date, localized data. However, general population figures and regional averages can offer a preliminary assessment. Research should be conducted to ascertain the current ratio within 18229, comparing it to state and national benchmarks. A below-average ratio would lower the initial Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care providers is paramount. This involves evaluating factors such as board certifications, experience, and patient satisfaction ratings. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc offer patient reviews that can provide valuable insights. Analyzing these reviews for patterns related to communication, diagnostic accuracy, and care coordination is crucial. Practices with consistently positive feedback and a demonstrated commitment to preventative care would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the ZIP code, or those serving the area, should be identified. These practices may demonstrate excellence in specific areas, such as advanced screening techniques, patient education, or care coordination. Investigating their protocols for lung cancer screening (e.g., adherence to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines), their referral pathways to specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, oncologists), and their patient support services (e.g., smoking cessation programs) is essential. Practices actively participating in community outreach and education initiatives would further elevate their Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly impacted healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can reduce travel burdens and improve the timeliness of care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within Jim Thorpe is crucial. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, would receive a higher Lung Cancer Score. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support is particularly important.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. Investigating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local area is necessary. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, specifically tailored to lung cancer patients and their families, is also a positive factor. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or have strong referral networks to mental health providers, would receive a higher score.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another critical factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these programs within Jim Thorpe is necessary. This includes evaluating the types of programs offered (e.g., individual counseling, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment) and their success rates. Practices actively promoting and supporting smoking cessation efforts would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

The proximity and quality of specialist care are also critical. This involves assessing the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within a reasonable distance of Jim Thorpe. Analyzing the credentials, experience, and patient outcomes of these specialists is important. The existence of a multidisciplinary team approach, where specialists collaborate to provide comprehensive care, would be a positive factor. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer center or program within the area would significantly enhance the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Jim Thorpe (18229) is ultimately a composite assessment, considering all the factors discussed above. A higher score would reflect a healthcare environment characterized by readily accessible primary care, high-quality providers, advanced screening capabilities, robust specialist support, telemedicine options, mental health resources, smoking cessation programs, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Conversely, a lower score would indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Jim Thorpe. Further, more detailed research, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and a deeper dive into available data sources, is recommended to refine the assessment and generate a more precise Lung Cancer Score. This includes accessing public health data, hospital reports, and community health assessments.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Jim Thorpe and the surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, specialist facilities, and support services, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping.

**Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare resources in your community and gain a deeper understanding of the factors impacting lung cancer care.**