18420, Fleetville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18420, Fleetville, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.43 percent of the residents in 18420 has some form of health insurance. 40.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.05 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 18420 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18420. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,300 health care providers accessible to residents in 18420, Fleetville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fleetville, PA (ZIP Code 18420)**

Fleetville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18420 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about lung cancer risk and treatment. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, crucial for early detection and ongoing management, within this specific geographic area. The score considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Fleetville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and a general strain on the healthcare system. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to care and potentially better patient outcomes. Determining the precise ratio for 18420 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). This data will be central to our initial assessment.

Identifying standout practices within Fleetville is essential. These are clinics or individual physicians demonstrating a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines, and providing comprehensive patient support. Key indicators include the implementation of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals (current or former smokers), adherence to national guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), and the availability of patient education materials. We must also consider the practice's integration with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, for seamless referral pathways.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas like Fleetville. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even receive education from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, those living far from medical facilities, or those who require frequent monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive a higher score. This also extends to the use of digital tools for patient communication and education.

The mental health component is often overlooked but is a critical aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, partner with mental health professionals, or have established referral systems will be viewed more favorably. This includes access to support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care.

Evaluating primary care availability specifically in Fleetville necessitates a granular approach. We must go beyond general statistics and delve into the specifics of each practice. This includes assessing the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility will be scored higher.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the performance across all these factors. Each factor will be weighted based on its perceived importance. The physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant component, as it directly impacts access to care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources will also be weighted heavily. The final score will provide a comparative assessment of the primary care landscape in Fleetville, giving residents a clearer picture of the available resources.

The assessment of Fleetville's healthcare landscape for lung cancer is not a static process. Healthcare dynamics constantly change. This analysis will be updated regularly to reflect the evolving healthcare landscape. This includes tracking new practices, changes in telemedicine adoption, and the introduction of new screening technologies.

The data gathering process itself is complex. It involves scouring public records, conducting surveys of local practices, and analyzing patient reviews. The data will be cross-referenced to ensure accuracy and reliability. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of the healthcare resources available to residents of Fleetville.

The ultimate aim of this "Lung Cancer Score" analysis is to empower residents of Fleetville with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals can proactively manage their lung cancer risk and seek the best possible care. This includes encouraging individuals to discuss their risk factors with their primary care physicians and to consider screening options if appropriate.

This analysis serves as a starting point. The information provided should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Individuals should always consult with their primary care physician or other qualified healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Fleetville, including physician locations, practice specialties, and access to resources, consider exploring interactive maps from CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed geographic representations of healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.