18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18234 has some form of health insurance. 92.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.69 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 18234 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18234. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,620 health care providers accessible to residents in 18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 18234, encompassing Lattimer Mines, requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll assess the available medical resources, focusing on primary care, and then evaluate how well these resources support early detection and treatment of lung cancer. This will include a review of physician-to-patient ratios, an examination of standout practices, and an assessment of telemedicine adoption, alongside the availability of mental health resources.

Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania, is a small community. Primary care availability is a crucial initial factor. The presence of accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts lung cancer outcomes. PCPs are the first line of defense, responsible for screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a critical metric. A low ratio indicates a higher concentration of patients per doctor, potentially leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and a decreased ability for physicians to dedicate sufficient time to each patient. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access to care, allowing for more proactive screening and management. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide physician-to-population ratios.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly concerning lung cancer. This assessment involves looking at factors such as patient outcomes, adherence to established clinical guidelines for screening and treatment, and patient satisfaction. Practices with a strong focus on preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and proactive screening for high-risk individuals, are highly valuable. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, is also a crucial element. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive support services, including access to oncology specialists, respiratory therapists, and patient navigators, contribute to a better patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. It reduces the need for travel, making it easier for patients to attend appointments and receive follow-up care. The adoption of telemedicine also helps to improve communication between patients and physicians. This is especially important for lung cancer patients who may experience fatigue or mobility issues. The availability of telemedicine services can be a significant factor in a practice's overall rating.

Mental health resources are another critical aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for supporting patients through their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes offering counseling, support groups, and referrals to mental health specialists. The availability of these resources can greatly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Evaluating these factors requires a thorough investigation of available data. This includes examining public health statistics, reviewing physician directories, and analyzing patient reviews. The analysis must consider the specific needs of the Lattimer Mines community, including its demographics and socioeconomic factors. This assessment should also consider the availability of transportation options, as limited transportation can create barriers to accessing care.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' for doctors in ZIP code 18234 will be a composite metric. It will be based on the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor will be assigned a weighted score based on its importance in lung cancer care. The overall score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. This score should be seen as a guide, not an absolute judgment, as healthcare is complex and individual patient experiences vary.

The analysis also needs to consider the specific challenges faced by residents of Lattimer Mines. Rural communities often have limited access to healthcare resources, including specialists and advanced diagnostic equipment. This is further complicated by the presence of an older population and a history of industrial work, which may increase the risk of lung cancer. The analysis must account for these unique circumstances and identify strategies for improving care in this specific context.

The assessment should also consider the availability of support services for lung cancer patients. This includes access to support groups, patient navigators, and financial assistance programs. These resources can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and manage the financial burden of treatment. Practices that actively promote these services demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' should be regularly updated. Healthcare is constantly evolving, with new treatments, technologies, and guidelines emerging. The score should be revised periodically to reflect these changes and ensure its continued relevance. This also allows for tracking improvements in care over time.

This analysis, while providing a valuable overview, is limited by the availability of data. Publicly available information may not always reflect the full picture of healthcare quality and accessibility. Further research, including direct outreach to healthcare providers and patient interviews, would enhance the accuracy and completeness of the assessment.

The ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights that can be used to improve lung cancer care in Lattimer Mines. This includes identifying areas where improvements are needed and highlighting best practices that can be replicated. The analysis should also inform patients about the available resources and help them make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize this data and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and patient demographics, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare resources and the population they serve.