18425, Greeley, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18425, Greeley, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.35 percent of the residents in 18425 has some form of health insurance. 52.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.03 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 18425 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 121 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18425. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 273 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 243 health care providers accessible to residents in 18425, Greeley, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Greeley, PA (ZIP Code 18425)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within the 18425 ZIP code, specifically focusing on its impact on lung cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, primary care accessibility, and the integration of supportive resources, all critical components in early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of this devastating disease. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. Regular check-ups and screenings are crucial for early detection, which dramatically improves survival rates. In Greeley, PA, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, the number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents, provides a snapshot of access. A low ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care. Data sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local hospital systems would be essential to determine this ratio accurately for 18425.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of primary care practices is vital. Are practices concentrated in one area, leaving certain neighborhoods underserved? Do transportation barriers exist for residents, hindering their ability to access care? These factors significantly impact the "Lung Cancer Score." Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by local practices must be investigated. A practice with a high patient load may be less receptive to new patients, further restricting access.

Identifying standout practices within the 18425 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening, patient education, and coordinated care. Factors to consider include the utilization of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (such as X-rays and potentially even low-dose CT scans), and the practice’s track record in referring patients to specialists. Does the practice actively participate in continuing medical education focused on lung cancer? Does it maintain a patient registry to track high-risk individuals? These elements contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

The adoption of telemedicine is another key indicator. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, improve access for patients with mobility issues, and facilitate follow-up appointments. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for managing symptoms, providing emotional support, and ensuring medication adherence. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will receive a higher score. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including its user-friendliness and security features, is also important.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The "Lung Cancer Score" must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the local healthcare system. Are these professionals integrated into the primary care practices, or are patients referred to separate facilities? The ease of access to mental health services, including the availability of therapists who specialize in oncology, impacts the score.

Furthermore, the accessibility of support groups and patient education programs is a significant factor. Does the local hospital or cancer center offer support groups for lung cancer patients and their families? Are educational materials readily available, covering topics such as treatment options, side effect management, and lifestyle modifications? The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic care, contributing to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

Beyond these factors, the presence of a local cancer center or hospital with a dedicated oncology department is crucial. These facilities typically offer a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology. The quality of these services, as measured by factors such as patient outcomes, the availability of advanced treatment modalities, and the expertise of the medical staff, significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

The analysis of the 18425 ZIP code would also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is essential for prevention and early intervention. Are there smoking cessation programs offered by local healthcare providers or community organizations? Do these programs include counseling, medication, and support groups? The availability and accessibility of these resources will impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" would consider the overall coordination of care. Does the local healthcare system facilitate communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers? Is there a system in place to ensure that patients receive timely referrals, coordinated treatment plans, and comprehensive follow-up care? The degree of coordination directly impacts patient outcomes and contributes to a higher score.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors and primary care availability in Greeley, PA (18425) is a complex metric. It's determined by a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, geographic accessibility, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized oncology services, and the overall coordination of care. A comprehensive analysis, using data from multiple sources and considering all of these factors, is essential to provide a meaningful assessment of the local healthcare ecosystem's ability to address the challenges of lung cancer.

For a visual representation of these factors, including the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps can provide a valuable, data-driven perspective on the healthcare landscape in Greeley, PA, and help you better understand the factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score."