18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 18509 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.51 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 18509 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18509. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,015 health care providers accessible to residents in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer care within ZIP code 18509, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection and effective treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately informing residents about their options and encouraging proactive health management.

Scranton, a city grappling with the legacy of its industrial past, faces unique healthcare challenges. The prevalence of lung cancer, often linked to environmental factors and smoking history, necessitates a robust and accessible healthcare infrastructure. Primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to this system, playing a critical role in screening, diagnosis, and referral. Their availability and quality directly impact patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise figures fluctuate, Scranton, like many areas, likely experiences some strain in this regard. Analyzing the specific ratio within 18509, and comparing it to both state and national averages, is crucial. This data, obtainable through sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care hinges on the practices themselves. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the presence of board-certified pulmonologists, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment like low-dose CT scanners (essential for early lung cancer detection), and participation in clinical trials. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide patient education materials demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability contribute to seamless care coordination, crucial for patients navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment. Researching individual practices within 18509, examining their websites, and reading patient reviews can reveal valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical aspect of modern healthcare. Remote consultations, particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Evaluating which practices in 18509 offer telemedicine services, and the types of services provided, is essential. This includes assessing the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Telemedicine can bridge gaps in access, ensuring that patients receive timely and convenient care.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore paramount. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This includes offering counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care when needed. Assessing the availability of these resources within 18509 is crucial. This involves identifying mental health professionals specializing in oncology, and evaluating the accessibility and affordability of their services.

The assessment of lung cancer care in 18509 requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of specialists, the presence of support services, and the adoption of innovative technologies. A comprehensive analysis should consider the following: the number of pulmonologists and oncologists practicing in the area, the availability of advanced imaging technologies, the presence of smoking cessation programs, and the integration of mental health services. Additionally, evaluating the availability of patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, is important.

The primary care landscape in Scranton is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize the early signs of lung cancer, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists is critical. The quality of primary care in 18509, therefore, directly impacts patient outcomes. This includes assessing the PCP's knowledge of lung cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to order low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, and their ability to communicate effectively with patients about their concerns.

Specific examples of standout practices within 18509 would be valuable. Identifying practices that have received awards or recognition for their quality of care, or that have a strong track record of patient satisfaction, can provide valuable insights. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in lung cancer care. Examining their websites, reading patient reviews, and contacting them directly can provide further information.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in improving access to care. Evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered by practices in 18509, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is essential. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. It can also reduce wait times and improve patient convenience.

Mental health resources are crucial for patients dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, and evaluating the accessibility and affordability of their services, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care within ZIP code 18509 depends on a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and access to mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents seeking to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of 18509 and beyond, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and other relevant data. Visit CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of your local healthcare options and make informed decisions about your health.