18433, Jermyn, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18433, Jermyn, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.85 percent of the residents in 18433 has some form of health insurance. 31.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.45 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 18433 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,301 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18433. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,027 health care providers accessible to residents in 18433, Jermyn, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on lung cancer care quality and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 18433, encompassing Jermyn, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support, while also evaluating the availability of primary care services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Jermyn, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a significant factor in determining the ease with which residents can secure appointments and receive timely care. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available databases are essential to accurately assess this ratio. It is crucial to consider not only the number of physicians but also their specialization, as the presence of pulmonologists and oncologists is vital for lung cancer patients.

Standout practices within the 18433 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This includes early detection programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Practices that actively participate in these screening programs, coupled with robust diagnostic capabilities like bronchoscopy and advanced imaging, are likely to provide superior care. Furthermore, practices that offer multidisciplinary care, bringing together pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, are better positioned to provide holistic treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Reviews from patients, and their experiences, should be factored into any such assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring, improving patient convenience and potentially reducing the need for travel. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for pulmonary and oncology consultations, is a valuable asset for patients in Jermyn. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on factors like internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, within the healthcare system or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, offering counseling services, support groups, or access to psychiatric medications, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the patient's overall health needs.

The quality of lung cancer care also depends on the availability of supportive services. This includes access to smoking cessation programs, which are vital for both preventing lung cancer and improving treatment outcomes for those diagnosed. The presence of patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is also a significant advantage. These navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance.

Primary care availability in Jermyn is the foundation of the healthcare system. Easy access to primary care physicians is essential for early detection of potential health problems, including symptoms that might indicate lung cancer. The number of primary care physicians, their willingness to accept new patients, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments are all important factors. A strong primary care infrastructure can facilitate prompt referrals to specialists when necessary, improving the likelihood of early diagnosis and treatment.

Further, the quality of care is also influenced by the practice’s participation in clinical trials. Clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer research. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials demonstrate a commitment to innovation and provide patients with access to the latest therapies.

The infrastructure supporting healthcare within the 18433 ZIP code also matters. This includes the presence of well-equipped hospitals with advanced imaging capabilities, such as PET scans and MRI machines. The availability of radiation therapy facilities is also crucial for patients requiring this type of treatment. The proximity of these facilities to Jermyn and the ease of access for patients are important considerations.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Jermyn requires a multifaceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the services offered by local practices, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and examining the availability of mental health resources and supportive services. A comprehensive evaluation should consider the presence of early detection programs, the availability of clinical trials, and the infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jermyn, including the location of physician practices, hospitals, and supportive services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the availability of healthcare resources in your community.