18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.02 percent of the residents in 18854 has some form of health insurance. 37.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.88 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 18854 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 340 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18854. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,896 health care providers accessible to residents in 18854, Wysox, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wysox, PA (ZIP Code 18854)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within the Wysox, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18854) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical entry point for early detection and management. This evaluation considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and capable primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referral to specialists significantly improves patient outcomes. In Wysox, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a key indicator of access. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access to care. Determining the precise ratio for this specific ZIP code requires detailed data analysis, including the total population of 18854 and the number of practicing PCPs within the geographical boundaries. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards would be essential for this calculation.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Assessing the performance of individual practices involves evaluating their adherence to recommended lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This includes examining the practice's use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients (those with a history of heavy smoking). Furthermore, the practices' referral patterns to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists should be examined. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to screening, early detection, and timely referral are considered standout practices. Identifying these high-performing entities requires access to patient data, which is typically protected by privacy regulations. However, public health reports and patient testimonials can sometimes provide insights into the reputation and quality of care offered by various practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Wysox. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment, and facilitate follow-up appointments. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. This information can be obtained through practice websites, online directories, and direct inquiries. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are better positioned to serve patients, especially those with mobility limitations or geographical constraints.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology and palliative care. Evaluation of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health providers, assessing their experience with cancer patients, and determining the availability of support groups and educational programs. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The geographical characteristics of Wysox, a rural area, influence the availability of healthcare. The distance patients must travel to access care, including primary care, specialist consultations, and treatment centers, is a critical factor. Transportation limitations can further exacerbate access issues. Analyzing the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and the transportation options available to patients is crucial for understanding the challenges and opportunities in this area.

The analysis also considers the presence of specialized services, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within or near the 18854 ZIP code. The proximity of these specialists significantly affects the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of hospitals and cancer centers with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is another key factor. Identifying the availability and accessibility of these specialized services is essential for evaluating the overall quality of lung cancer care in Wysox.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Wysox, PA (ZIP code 18854) is a composite metric that integrates all the above factors. It is not a simple calculation, but rather a nuanced assessment based on the interplay of various factors. The score reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals facing lung cancer. A high score indicates a well-resourced healthcare environment with good access to primary care, specialists, mental health services, and advanced treatment options. A lower score suggests potential areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health resources.

To truly understand the landscape of healthcare in Wysox, PA, and visualize the distribution of resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and other crucial data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare ecosystem, allowing you to explore the data in a visually compelling and informative way.