18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.25 percent of the residents in 18250 has some form of health insurance. 48.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.09 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 18250 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 696 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18250. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 546 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,737 health care providers accessible to residents in 18250, Summit Hill, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Summit Hill, PA (ZIP Code 18250) - A Deep Dive

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographical area, particularly concerning a critical disease like lung cancer, demands a nuanced approach. This analysis focuses on Summit Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18250), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources – all factors significantly impacting lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient well-being. We'll assess these factors, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, and offer insights into the healthcare landscape within this community.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and quality primary care. Early detection is paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, crucial for screening, risk assessment, and referrals to specialists. In Summit Hill, determining the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental step. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with publicly available information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, is essential. This data reveals the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the population size. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, could create significant barriers to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. It is important to note that this data is dynamic and requires continuous monitoring.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community matters. Are they clustered in one area, leaving other sections underserved? Are there language barriers, or cultural sensitivities that need to be addressed? Understanding the geographic distribution and demographic considerations of the physician base is crucial to understanding the accessibility of care.

The quality of care is another critical factor. This is a complex evaluation, involving factors like board certifications, years of experience, patient satisfaction scores (where available), and adherence to established clinical guidelines for lung cancer screening and management. While a comprehensive assessment of individual physician performance is beyond the scope of this analysis, examining the overall quality of care within the community is possible. This might involve reviewing the practices’ accreditation status, participation in quality improvement programs, and their use of evidence-based practices.

Standout practices within the 18250 ZIP code, if any, deserve specific recognition. These practices might demonstrate excellence in patient communication, a commitment to preventative care, or innovative approaches to patient management. Identifying these practices serves as a model for other providers in the area. It is important to note that finding a practice that is a “standout” requires a comprehensive review of many factors, including patient testimonials, and a review of the practice’s approach to patient care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to enhance healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Summit Hill is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve care. This involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and electronic communication platforms. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations, making care more convenient and accessible. The availability of telemedicine options is especially important for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but essential, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is critical for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals within the community, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the ease with which patients can access these resources. The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Summit Hill, PA (18250) will be a composite assessment, weighing the factors discussed above. It is important to note that this score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more robust healthcare infrastructure, and a greater likelihood of positive outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

The process of assigning a score requires a careful evaluation of the available data. This includes gathering information from multiple sources, verifying the accuracy of the data, and applying a standardized methodology for scoring. The final score will be presented in a clear and concise format, along with a brief explanation of the methodology used.

This analysis is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Summit Hill, PA, and to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility and availability of care in your community.