18436, Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18436, Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.71 percent of the residents in 18436 has some form of health insurance. 42.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.25 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 18436 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,306 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18436. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,050 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 18436, Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lake Ariel, PA (ZIP Code 18436)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment within the Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18436) area. The focus is on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services, as these are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms. The analysis also considers factors crucial for lung cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This information is presented to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, aiming to assist residents in navigating their healthcare journey.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care relies heavily on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians play a critical role in identifying potential issues, ordering necessary screenings, and referring patients to specialists when needed. In Lake Ariel, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial indicator of the community's ability to combat lung cancer effectively. This analysis will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric for understanding access to care. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Lake Ariel (ZIP Code 18436) is a critical factor. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available sources will be examined to determine the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and compare it to the population size. This will provide a baseline understanding of the potential for patient access. A higher physician-to-patient ratio may indicate challenges in securing timely appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. This metric will be weighed against other factors, such as the availability of specialists in nearby areas.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This analysis will identify standout practices within the Lake Ariel area. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to preventative care, their use of advanced diagnostic tools, or their patient-centered approach. Identifying these practices allows residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Factors considered will include the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as X-ray machines or the ability to perform basic pulmonary function tests.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers several advantages, especially for rural communities like Lake Ariel. It can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. This is especially beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and other side effects. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure communication platforms.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the Lake Ariel area, focusing on resources accessible to cancer patients. This includes identifying therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or providing services to those affected by cancer. The proximity and accessibility of these resources are important factors in assessing the overall healthcare landscape.

Specific practices will be examined to determine their strengths. For example, a practice that consistently promotes lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is a positive indicator. The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination between primary care physicians and specialists is another important factor. The analysis will also consider the practice's commitment to patient education and its ability to provide clear and concise information about lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options.

The availability of specialists in nearby areas is also crucial. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, patients often require referrals to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. The analysis will assess the proximity and accessibility of these specialists, considering travel times and appointment availability. This includes identifying hospitals and cancer centers that provide comprehensive lung cancer care, including surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of clinical trials is also an important factor.

The analysis will also consider the role of community resources. Local health organizations, support groups, and non-profit organizations can provide invaluable support to lung cancer patients and their families. These organizations may offer educational programs, financial assistance, and emotional support. The analysis will identify these resources and assess their accessibility to residents of Lake Ariel. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation services for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments.

The overall assessment will consider all these factors to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lake Ariel, PA (ZIP Code 18436), concerning lung cancer care. This includes evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity of specialists. The goal is to provide residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved access to care.

The information presented in this analysis is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is essential to consult with qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and it is important to stay informed about the latest developments in lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources available in Lake Ariel and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a comprehensive and dynamic view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis.