18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.90 percent of the residents in 18623 has some form of health insurance. 44.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.08 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 18623 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 501 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18623. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 490 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 401 health care providers accessible to residents in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Laceyville, PA (ZIP Code 18623)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources in Laceyville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18623), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The aim is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in the fight against lung cancer.

Laceyville, a small rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians is a cornerstone of early detection and effective management of lung cancer. Regular check-ups and screenings are vital, especially for individuals at high risk, such as smokers or those with a family history of the disease. A robust primary care system can facilitate timely referrals to specialists, ensuring prompt diagnosis and treatment.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural setting, this ratio can significantly impact access to care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This analysis will seek to determine the approximate physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 18623 and the surrounding areas, providing a baseline understanding of access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) will be consulted to determine this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices in Laceyville are essential. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have the resources to conduct basic lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans? These factors influence the convenience and accessibility of care. Practices that prioritize patient education, smoking cessation programs, and proactive screening initiatives are particularly valuable in the fight against lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices is a key objective. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, proactive screening protocols, and strong referral networks are vital. These practices often have a positive impact on patient outcomes. They may also participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors and promoting early detection. Information on the specific practices will be sought through online reviews, local directories, and potentially, direct contact with healthcare providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical consideration. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Laceyville. Telehealth consultations can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, all of which are crucial for lung cancer patients. The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices will be evaluated, considering the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referral networks is therefore essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis will seek to identify the availability of these resources and assess their accessibility for patients.

The analysis will also consider the presence of any specialized lung cancer support services in the Laceyville area. These may include support groups, patient navigators, or educational programs. Such services can provide invaluable assistance to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of the disease and its treatment.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will provide a relative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in Laceyville, specifically in relation to lung cancer care. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized support services. The score will not be a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment, providing a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The findings of this analysis will be based on publicly available data, online resources, and potentially, direct inquiries to healthcare providers in the area. It's important to acknowledge the limitations of such an analysis, which may not capture all aspects of the local healthcare landscape. However, it aims to provide a valuable overview, informing residents and healthcare providers about the current state of lung cancer care in Laceyville.

The results of this analysis, combined with the data visualizations available through CartoChrome maps, can provide a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Laceyville and the surrounding areas. CartoChrome maps offer a user-friendly interface for visualizing geographic data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information. This combination of data and visualization can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources in Laceyville and the surrounding areas, including physician locations and practice characteristics, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a comprehensive and user-friendly way to understand the local healthcare landscape.