18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.42 percent of the residents in 18817 has some form of health insurance. 38.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.36 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 18817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 38 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18817. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,888 health care providers accessible to residents in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 18817, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources in East Smithfield, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing patient support. This analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a robust healthcare system.

The physician-to-patient ratio in East Smithfield is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, signifying fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio requires constant monitoring and is proprietary to various healthcare data providers, the general trend within this rural community is likely to reflect the national average. Rural areas often face a shortage of physicians compared to urban centers. This scarcity can be exacerbated by the aging population and the out-migration of young professionals, including healthcare providers. Therefore, residents of 18817 may experience challenges in securing timely access to a PCP.

The identification of "standout practices" is crucial for understanding the quality of care within the area. These practices are defined by their commitment to patient-centered care, their utilization of evidence-based medicine, and their proactive approach to preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Practices demonstrating a commitment to screening protocols for high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards, are particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to seamlessly share information with specialists are crucial for efficient and coordinated care. The presence of patient navigators or care coordinators within these practices also significantly improves patient outcomes by guiding individuals through the complex healthcare system.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like East Smithfield. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide educational resources can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can offer a wider range of services, including follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, all from the comfort of the patient's home. The availability of reliable internet access is, of course, a prerequisite for the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences, and access to mental health professionals is crucial for supporting patients through this challenging journey. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, either through in-house services or partnerships with external providers, are highly valued. The ability to offer support groups, individual counseling, and access to psychiatric medications is critical for improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for East Smithfield, PA (18817) would likely be negatively impacted by the challenges typical of rural healthcare. The lower physician-to-patient ratio, the need for improvement in telemedicine adoption, and the potential scarcity of mental health resources all contribute to a lower score. However, the presence of standout practices that prioritize preventative care, patient education, and coordinated care can mitigate these challenges. The score is a dynamic measure, constantly evolving based on changes in healthcare infrastructure, physician availability, and the adoption of new technologies.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score in East Smithfield, several key strategies should be considered. Recruiting and retaining PCPs is paramount. Incentivizing physicians to practice in rural areas, through loan forgiveness programs, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional development, can help address the physician shortage. Promoting telemedicine adoption through infrastructure investment and physician training is another critical step. Expanding access to mental health services, through partnerships with community organizations and the integration of mental health professionals into primary care practices, can also significantly improve patient outcomes. Finally, encouraging the development of patient-centered care models, with a focus on preventative screenings, early detection, and coordinated care, is essential for improving the overall quality of care.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Smithfield and surrounding areas, including the locations of PCPs, specialist availability, and access to mental health resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable spatial representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to assess the proximity of services, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.