18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.53 percent of the residents in 18617 has some form of health insurance. 45.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.55 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 18617 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 206 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18617. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,926 health care providers accessible to residents in 18617, Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Glen Lyon, PA (ZIP Code 18617)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score, a multifaceted assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support, focusing on the specific geographic area of Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18617). The score considers factors such as primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial components in navigating the complexities of lung cancer. This is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather an informational overview to aid in understanding the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care access. Glen Lyon, a small community, likely experiences limitations in this area. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within and immediately surrounding the ZIP code is paramount. This involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within a reasonable radius, factoring in travel time, and considering the patient-to-physician ratio. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per PCP, can indicate potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments, preventative screenings, and ongoing care. The impact of this on lung cancer patients can be significant, as early detection through regular screenings is critical for improved outcomes.

Further investigation is needed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Glen Lyon. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with physician directories, can provide a preliminary estimate. However, the actual ratio can be skewed by factors such as the prevalence of specialists in the area, the presence of nearby hospitals, and the utilization patterns of the local population. A detailed analysis should also consider the age and health status of the population, as these factors influence the demand for primary care services.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are also vital. This involves evaluating the types of services offered by local PCPs, including the availability of on-site diagnostic testing (e.g., X-rays, blood work) and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices with advanced EHR systems often demonstrate better coordination of care, allowing for improved communication between physicians, specialists, and patients. The presence of extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments can also significantly improve accessibility, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms or requiring urgent care.

The presence of specialized practices, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is another critical element of the Lung Cancer Score. While Glen Lyon may not have these specialists within its immediate boundaries, the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Wilkes-Barre and Scranton is crucial. The travel time to these centers, the availability of specialists, and the types of services offered (e.g., advanced imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical oncology) all contribute to the overall score. The existence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which bring together various specialists to collaborate on patient treatment plans, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Glen Lyon. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring of patients, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs and specialists is essential. This involves determining the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote patient monitoring) and the availability of technology to support these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and enhance communication between patients and providers.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral part of the Lung Cancer Score. This involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, as well as the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices and cancer treatment centers is a significant advantage, as it facilitates access to these crucial resources.

Analyzing standout practices within the region requires a nuanced approach. This involves identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation in service delivery, and a commitment to community health. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, physician certifications, the use of evidence-based practices, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Identifying these standout practices can provide valuable insights into the best options for lung cancer patients in the area.

The Lung Cancer Score for Glen Lyon, PA, will be significantly influenced by the availability of resources in neighboring communities. The healthcare infrastructure of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton, for example, will play a crucial role in determining the overall quality of care available to residents of 18617. A comprehensive analysis should consider the geographic proximity of these larger medical centers, the transportation options available to patients, and the ability of patients to access specialized care when needed.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Glen Lyon (18617) is a complex assessment that requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care, the proximity to specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. Further research is needed to obtain precise data on physician-to-patient ratios, the types of services offered by local practices, and the availability of specialized cancer care.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare resources available in Glen Lyon and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data and understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population they serve.