18822, Hallstead, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18822, Hallstead, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 18822 has some form of health insurance. 44.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.78 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 18822 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 709 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18822. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 644 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 255 health care providers accessible to residents in 18822, Hallstead, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hallstead, PA (ZIP Code 18822)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP Code 18822 (Hallstead, PA), focusing on factors impacting lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility and quality of care, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, all of which contribute to a patient's overall experience and outcomes.

Hallstead, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled in Susquehanna County, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to reduced availability of specialized medical services, potentially impacting early detection and comprehensive care for lung cancer.

**Primary Care Availability:**

A robust primary care system is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer management. Early detection, often facilitated by routine screenings and proactive patient engagement, is crucial. In Hallstead, the analysis must consider the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively serving the population, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced opportunities for preventative care, directly affecting the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can provide primary care services, should also be factored into the equation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to increased patient loads for each physician, potentially impacting appointment availability, time spent with patients, and the ability to provide individualized care. This can be particularly detrimental in lung cancer cases, where timely diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are essential. The analysis should compare the physician-to-patient ratio in Hallstead to regional and national averages to determine if the area is adequately served.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires examining specific aspects of their service. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols, and the presence of a multidisciplinary team approach. Practices that proactively engage in patient education, offer smoking cessation programs, and participate in clinical trials should be recognized for their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers are vital for seamless communication and care coordination.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution to address healthcare access challenges in rural areas. The adoption of telehealth services by local physicians and healthcare facilities is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and enable virtual follow-up appointments, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care. The analysis should assess the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care continuum.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis should evaluate the presence of mental health providers in the area, the accessibility of these services, and the integration of mental health support into the overall lung cancer care plan. The ability of physicians to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals is also a key consideration.

**Specific Considerations for Hallstead:**

Given Hallstead's rural setting, the analysis must consider the availability of transportation options for patients. Limited access to transportation can significantly hinder access to healthcare services, including appointments for screenings, treatment, and follow-up care. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors of the community, as these can influence access to care and health outcomes. Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to quality care are essential for improving the Lung Cancer Score.

**Overall Assessment:**

The Lung Cancer Score for physicians in ZIP Code 18822 will be determined by a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care available in the area. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for patients, with better access to early detection, timely treatment, and supportive services. Conversely, a lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health support.

**Conclusion:**

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in Hallstead, PA, and identifying areas for improvement. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, stakeholders can work together to enhance the quality of care for individuals affected by lung cancer. The analysis should not be considered a definitive ranking but rather a starting point for further investigation and action.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hallstead and surrounding areas, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights into the availability of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed assessment of lung cancer care accessibility.