18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18430 has some form of health insurance. 42.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18430 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18430. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 971 health care providers accessible to residents in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18430 & Herrick Center Primary Care

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 18430, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care, specifically examining the availability and quality of primary care services within the context of Herrick Center. The ultimate goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to patients and identify areas for potential improvement, particularly in the early detection and management of lung cancer. This analysis will not provide a numerical score, but rather a qualitative assessment based on available data and relevant metrics.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt treatment. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in this process, acting as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at high risk due to factors such as smoking history. The availability and accessibility of PCPs within a given area are therefore critical indicators of the overall healthcare infrastructure's ability to address lung cancer.

In assessing the situation within ZIP Code 18430, the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental consideration. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can offer insights into the density of PCPs in the area. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily accessible primary care system, which can translate into improved patient outcomes.

The specific practices within ZIP Code 18430 warrant closer scrutiny. Identifying standout practices, those with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening, is essential. This involves evaluating the practice’s adherence to guidelines from organizations like the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding lung cancer screening recommendations for high-risk individuals. Furthermore, it is important to examine the practices' patient education materials, their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient risk factors, and their referral pathways to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing the quality and accessibility of healthcare services within the region. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas like those surrounding Herrick Center, by providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The extent to which PCPs in 18430 have embraced telemedicine, including the use of video conferencing and remote monitoring technologies, directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely and convenient care. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows are likely to offer a more patient-centered and accessible approach to healthcare.

The importance of mental-health resources in the context of lung cancer cannot be overstated. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental-health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks, is vital. Practices that proactively address the mental-health needs of their patients are better equipped to provide holistic and comprehensive care, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

Focusing specifically on Herrick Center, a detailed examination of the primary care landscape is necessary. This includes identifying the PCPs serving the community, evaluating their staffing levels, and assessing the availability of ancillary services, such as diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing. The proximity of these services to the primary care practices can significantly impact the patient experience and the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. A well-integrated healthcare system, where primary care practices have strong relationships with specialists and diagnostic facilities, is crucial for providing optimal care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the PCPs in 18430. Understanding the age, smoking history, and socioeconomic status of the patient population is essential for tailoring healthcare services to meet specific needs. For example, practices serving a population with a high prevalence of smoking history should prioritize lung cancer screening and smoking cessation programs. Furthermore, addressing socioeconomic disparities in access to care is crucial for ensuring equitable outcomes for all patients.

Data on patient satisfaction, derived from surveys and patient reviews, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by PCPs in 18430. Analyzing patient feedback on factors such as communication, wait times, and the overall patient experience can highlight areas of strength and areas needing improvement. Practices that actively solicit and respond to patient feedback are more likely to provide patient-centered care.

The assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 18430 should also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of hospitals and specialty clinics that offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The proximity of these facilities to the primary care practices, and the efficiency of referral pathways, are critical factors in ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

In conclusion, evaluating the lung cancer care landscape within ZIP Code 18430, particularly in relation to Herrick Center, requires a comprehensive assessment of several interconnected factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental-health resources, and the integration of primary care with the broader healthcare ecosystem. By carefully examining these factors, it is possible to gain a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identify opportunities for improvement. This analysis aims to provide a foundational understanding of the current situation, promoting informed decision-making and ultimately, improving patient outcomes.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 18430 and gain a visual representation of the data discussed, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the area.