18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.91 percent of the residents in 18642 has some form of health insurance. 43.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.80 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 18642 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18642. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 18642, Duryea, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 18642, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in Duryea, Pennsylvania, and its capacity to address the needs of individuals facing lung cancer or at risk of developing the disease. The focus is on primary care as the initial point of contact and the critical gateway to specialized oncology services.

Duryea, PA, like many smaller communities, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. One of the most significant factors is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact ratio within ZIP Code 18642 requires a detailed analysis of practicing physicians, including primary care physicians (PCPs), and the local population. This data is often available through state medical boards, the U.S. Census Bureau, and healthcare market analysis reports. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate a shortage of healthcare providers, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive care, and delayed diagnoses. This is particularly critical for lung cancer, where early detection is crucial for improved outcomes.

The availability of primary care physicians is paramount. PCPs serve as the first line of defense, providing routine checkups, screening for risk factors, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. A robust primary care network ensures that individuals have regular access to preventive services, including smoking cessation programs, which are vital in reducing lung cancer risk. The geographical distribution of PCPs within Duryea and the surrounding areas is another important consideration. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating disparities in access for residents in more remote locations?

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of care is essential. This involves assessing the practices themselves. Are they patient-centered? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have a good reputation within the community? Reviews and ratings from patients, available through online platforms and patient surveys, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adhering to screening guidelines for individuals at high risk of lung cancer, is a key indicator of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, and its impact is particularly relevant in areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, potentially reducing the need for travel and improving access to care for individuals in Duryea. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly impact the accessibility of care. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of specialized oncology support services is essential. This includes whether practices offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or partnerships with support organizations.

Determining the “standout practices” within Duryea requires a comparative analysis based on several factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and adherence to evidence-based practices. Practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide a higher quality of care and better outcomes for patients. It is important to note that the assessment of “standout practices” is dynamic and can change over time.

The assessment of lung cancer care also requires an understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure. This includes the presence of nearby hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized oncology services. The proximity of these resources and the ease of access to them can significantly impact patient outcomes. For example, the availability of advanced imaging technology, such as CT scans, and access to specialized treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, are essential for effective lung cancer care.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Duryea, PA, for lung cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of individual practices provides a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis is essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that individuals in Duryea have access to the care they need to prevent, diagnose, and treat lung cancer effectively. The data-driven insights from this assessment can be leveraged to improve healthcare access and outcomes for the residents of Duryea.

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