18437, Lake Como, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18437, Lake Como, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.11 percent of the residents in 18437 has some form of health insurance. 47.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.50 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 18437 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 21 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18437. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 951 health care providers accessible to residents in 18437, Lake Como, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lake Como, PA (ZIP Code 18437)

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of Lake Como, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18437), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. We will assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, considering their capacity to detect and manage lung cancer risk factors, and the support systems in place for patients. The goal is to provide an insightful "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients. Their ability to identify risk factors, such as smoking history, and order appropriate screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans is paramount. Furthermore, the availability of PCPs directly impacts access to care, making it a critical component of our analysis.

In Lake Como (18437), a key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reflects the number of PCPs available to serve the local population. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be consulted to estimate this ratio. The findings will be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in this area.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This involves evaluating the practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management. Factors to consider include the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate data sharing and care coordination, the use of patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling, and the practices’ commitment to continuing medical education in the field of oncology. These elements contribute to a more comprehensive and proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and treatment.

Identifying standout practices within the Lake Como area is crucial. This involves researching practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in primary care. We will look for practices that have implemented best practices in lung cancer screening, such as actively identifying and counseling patients at high risk. We will investigate the availability of on-site services, such as smoking cessation programs, which are vital in reducing lung cancer risk. Practices with strong patient satisfaction scores and positive online reviews will also be considered.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Lake Como. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing wait times. The availability of telehealth services for primary care, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, will be assessed. The analysis will consider the types of telemedicine platforms used, the range of services offered, and the ease of access for patients.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis will explore the availability of mental health services in the Lake Como area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. We will investigate whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health providers. The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is essential for patient well-being.

The socioeconomic factors of the community also influence lung cancer outcomes. Factors such as income levels, access to health insurance, and educational attainment can significantly impact access to care and adherence to treatment plans. While a detailed socioeconomic analysis is beyond the scope of this specific assessment, we will consider readily available data on these factors to provide context for our overall findings.

The analysis will also consider the proximity to specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and cancer treatment centers. Access to these specialists is crucial for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The availability of transportation options to these facilities will also be assessed. This aspect is particularly important in a rural setting where travel distances can be a barrier to care.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Lake Como (18437) will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted importance of each of the factors discussed above. The score will provide a snapshot of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in this area, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy interpretation.

The findings of this analysis will be valuable to residents of Lake Como, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide insights into the current state of lung cancer care in the area, identifying areas for improvement and opportunities for collaboration. It will also serve as a benchmark for future assessments, allowing for the tracking of progress and the evaluation of the impact of interventions.

This "Lung Cancer Score" analysis offers a critical overview of the healthcare landscape in Lake Como, Pennsylvania. The comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, provides a detailed picture of the area's strengths and weaknesses in the context of lung cancer prevention and treatment. The findings can inform both residents and healthcare providers in their efforts to improve health outcomes.

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