18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.76 percent of the residents in 18438 has some form of health insurance. 57.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.73 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 18438 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 180 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18438. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 383 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,448 health care providers accessible to residents in 18438, Lakeville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lakeville, PA (ZIP Code 18438)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Lakeville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18438) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing factors relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment. This analysis, termed a "Lung Cancer Score," considers various indicators reflecting the environment for patients seeking primary care, early detection, and support within this specific geographical area. The focus is on evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which directly impact the patient journey and overall outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The primary care physician (PCP) landscape is the cornerstone of early lung cancer detection. Regular check-ups and screenings, as recommended by guidelines, are typically initiated by PCPs. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. In Lakeville, we need to determine the number of practicing PCPs within the 18438 ZIP code and compare it to the population size. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. We must also consider the demographics of the area, including the age distribution, as older populations tend to require more frequent medical attention. Furthermore, we need to assess the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and may have better resources for coordinating care.

Standout practices in Lakeville are those that excel in several key areas. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, such as preventative screenings (including lung cancer screening for eligible patients), chronic disease management, and mental health support. Practices that are patient-centered, with a focus on clear communication, shared decision-making, and patient education, are also highly valued. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to evidence-based guidelines are essential. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, physician ratings, and information on the services offered. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers are also crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas like Lakeville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of telemedicine services offered by local PCPs. This includes the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, phone consultations, secure messaging), the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, specialist consultations), and the ease of use for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient base and provide more timely care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical in the context of lung cancer. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of mental health services within the Lakeville area. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the types of mental health services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care model, such as offering on-site counseling or having established referral pathways to mental health specialists, receive higher scores. The availability of support groups for cancer patients and their families is also an important consideration.

The integration of these factors creates a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score. This score provides a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Lakeville, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. A high score indicates a favorable environment for lung cancer patients, with good access to primary care, preventative screenings, telemedicine services, and mental health support. A lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing care and may require targeted interventions to improve healthcare accessibility and quality.

The analysis also considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and the availability of specialized cancer care within a reasonable distance of Lakeville. These factors are critical in ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with a dedicated oncology department, access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and the availability of clinical trials are all important considerations. The Lung Cancer Score reflects the overall quality of care available for lung cancer patients in the area.

The accessibility of information is also a crucial element. Patients need to be able to easily find information about local physicians, healthcare services, and support resources. This includes online directories, patient portals, and community outreach programs. Practices that provide clear and concise information about their services and actively engage with the community receive higher scores. The availability of multilingual resources is also important, considering the demographics of the area.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the addition of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new services. The score can be used to identify areas for improvement and to guide healthcare providers in their efforts to enhance patient care. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is supportive, accessible, and effective for all patients, especially those affected by lung cancer.

For a detailed visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care indicators, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape of Lakeville, PA, and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.