18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.59 percent of the residents in 18407 has some form of health insurance. 49.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.67 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 18407 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,135 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18407. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,877 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,886 health care providers accessible to residents in 18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on the availability of resources and the overall landscape of care within the context of lung cancer treatment and support for primary care patients in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18407 ZIP code. This assessment considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals affected by lung cancer and those seeking primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. In the 18407 ZIP code, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical factor. A shortage of primary care physicians can exacerbate the challenges faced by lung cancer patients, as they often rely on their primary care doctors for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and ongoing support. Furthermore, a limited number of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance would further complicate the situation. Analyzing data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provides a baseline understanding of the population size and physician distribution in the area.

Several medical practices in Carbondale stand out for their commitment to patient care and their approach to lung cancer and primary care. Identifying these "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, the presence of multidisciplinary teams involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and nurses, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives are also highly regarded, as they often provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Patient reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided by these practices.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in enhancing access to care, particularly in rural areas like Carbondale. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for those undergoing cancer treatment or managing chronic conditions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online access to medical records. This technology can also facilitate communication between primary care physicians and specialists, improving care coordination. The analysis considers the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for providing support and managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services in Carbondale, including the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these resources for patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is crucial for providing comprehensive care.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in the 18407 ZIP code is a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. This score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care and primary care services in the area. The score is not a single number but rather a nuanced assessment based on the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. A high score indicates a well-resourced healthcare environment with a high physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing care, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of support services.

The assessment also considers the specific needs of primary care patients in Carbondale. Primary care physicians play a vital role in the early detection and management of lung cancer, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of primary care physicians, their ability to provide preventive care, and their capacity to coordinate care with specialists are all crucial factors. The analysis considers the availability of primary care services, the types of services offered, and the level of coordination between primary care physicians and specialists.

The analysis also considers the presence of support groups and community resources for lung cancer patients and their families. Support groups provide a valuable platform for patients to connect with others who have similar experiences, share information, and receive emotional support. Community resources, such as cancer centers and patient advocacy organizations, offer additional support services, including financial assistance, educational programs, and access to resources. The analysis assesses the availability of these resources and their accessibility for patients in Carbondale.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" analysis is a dynamic assessment that can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates are essential to reflect changes in physician distribution, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of support services. This analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of lung cancer and primary care in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, and can be used to identify areas for improvement and inform healthcare planning efforts.

To explore the healthcare landscape in Carbondale and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools and data visualization capabilities, allowing you to explore physician locations, access to care, and other relevant information.