18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.74 percent of the residents in 18463 has some form of health insurance. 47.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.48 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 18463 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18463. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,914 health care providers accessible to residents in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18463 and Sterling, PA

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within ZIP code 18463, encompassing the Sterling, PA area. The primary focus is on primary care access, a critical first step in early detection and intervention. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in a comprehensive lung cancer care framework. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather a snapshot based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in timely diagnosis. This begins with accessible and competent primary care physicians (PCPs). A favorable physician-to-patient ratio is essential. While precise figures for 18463 are difficult to ascertain without proprietary data, we can infer general availability based on broader regional trends and population density. The rural nature of Sterling suggests potential challenges in securing prompt appointments with PCPs. This could translate into delayed screenings and diagnoses, impacting patient outcomes. The lack of readily available data on PCP-to-patient ratios necessitates a reliance on broader county-level statistics and anecdotal evidence from local residents.

Several factors contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score. The quality of primary care practices is paramount. We will examine practices known to be located in or near the 18463 ZIP code. The analysis considers factors like physician experience, patient reviews (where available), and the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities. Practices with a strong track record of preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education, would score higher. The presence of established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists is also a key indicator of a well-coordinated care system.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and even remote monitoring, will receive higher scores. The convenience and accessibility offered by telemedicine can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to earlier diagnoses and better management of lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a crucial component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness is essential. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models, either through on-site providers or established referral networks, would receive higher scores. Support groups and educational resources for patients and their families are also highly valued.

Standout practices in the region, while difficult to identify definitively without detailed data, likely share several characteristics. They prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive services, and actively engage in patient education. They are likely to have a strong focus on early detection, offering or facilitating access to lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals. They would likely have a well-coordinated team of healthcare professionals, including PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and support staff.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 18463, based on the available information, is likely to be moderate, reflecting the potential challenges of rural healthcare access. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The absence of specific data on these factors limits the ability to provide a precise score. However, the analysis highlights the importance of these elements in delivering effective lung cancer care.

The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. Lung cancer, when detected early, is often more treatable. The presence of well-established referral pathways from primary care physicians to specialists is crucial. These pathways ensure that patients receive timely access to diagnostic testing, such as CT scans and biopsies, and to specialized treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Practices that have invested in developing these referral networks will receive higher scores.

Patient education is another crucial aspect of lung cancer care. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options are more likely to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. This includes providing educational materials, offering support groups, and facilitating access to online resources. Practices that prioritize patient education would receive higher scores.

The analysis also considers the availability of support services for patients and their families. Lung cancer can be a challenging disease, both physically and emotionally. Support services, such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance programs, can help patients and their families cope with the challenges of the disease. Practices that offer or facilitate access to these services would receive higher scores.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 18463 is a complex assessment, influenced by various factors. The availability of primary care, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all play a significant role. While a definitive score is difficult to provide without detailed data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key elements that contribute to effective lung cancer care in the Sterling, PA area.

Understanding the healthcare landscape is vital for individuals seeking care. The data used in this analysis is based on publicly available information and reasonable assumptions. The actual healthcare environment may vary.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18463 and other areas, we encourage you to explore the power of visual data. CartoChrome maps offers interactive mapping solutions, allowing you to visualize healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.