18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.32 percent of the residents in 18634 has some form of health insurance. 43.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 18634 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18634. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,989 health care providers accessible to residents in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Nanticoke, PA (ZIP Code 18634)

This analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within Nanticoke, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18634), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources. This assessment aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" by evaluating key factors impacting early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The core of this analysis centers on the crucial role PCPs play in screening, diagnosis, and referral for lung cancer patients.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection, primarily through screening for high-risk individuals. This necessitates accessible and proactive primary care. In Nanticoke, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a primary indicator of access. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. We need to analyze the current ratio within 18634, comparing it to state and national averages. This includes assessing the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and estimating the population they serve. If the ratio is unfavorable, it could lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for potential lung cancer patients.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices and their adherence to established guidelines for lung cancer screening, specifically for individuals meeting the criteria outlined by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This includes assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients. Practices that proactively identify and screen high-risk patients are more likely to detect lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. We must investigate whether local practices actively promote and facilitate these screenings.

Furthermore, the integration of technology significantly impacts the accessibility and efficiency of healthcare. Telemedicine, for instance, offers a valuable tool for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients. Its adoption within Nanticoke's primary care practices is crucial. We need to assess the extent to which telemedicine is utilized for lung cancer-related care, including virtual consultations for discussing symptoms, screening results, and treatment plans. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce travel burdens, and potentially enhance patient adherence to treatment protocols.

Another critical aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of readily accessible mental health services within the community is vital for supporting patients throughout their journey. We need to investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within or near Nanticoke. This includes assessing whether primary care practices have established referral pathways for mental health support and if mental health services are integrated into the overall care plan for lung cancer patients.

Specific practices within 18634 warrant closer examination. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care is essential. This involves evaluating their screening rates, patient outcomes, and integration of supportive services. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors and screening are particularly valuable. We need to identify these practices and highlight their best practices to encourage adoption across the region.

The analysis also needs to consider the broader healthcare ecosystem in Nanticoke. This includes assessing the proximity and accessibility of specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The ease with which patients can access these specialists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. We need to evaluate the referral pathways from primary care practices to these specialists and assess the waiting times for appointments.

Moreover, the availability of support groups and patient education resources plays a crucial role in empowering patients and improving their quality of life. We need to investigate whether there are local support groups for lung cancer patients and their families. We also need to assess the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and online resources, that provide patients with information about their condition, treatment options, and support services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a dynamic measure, influenced by evolving healthcare practices and community resources. Regular updates and reassessments are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This ongoing analysis will provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers, ultimately contributing to better lung cancer outcomes in Nanticoke.

The success of lung cancer care relies on a collaborative approach, involving primary care physicians, specialists, and the community. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs in Nanticoke, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform future initiatives.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Nanticoke, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and support resources, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in service.