18913, Carversville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18913, Carversville, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18913 has some form of health insurance. 7.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.18 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 18913 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 91 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18913. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,878 health care providers accessible to residents in 18913, Carversville, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18913 and Primary Care Availability in Carversville**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Carversville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18913), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer screening and care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial aspects in a patient's journey with lung cancer. This assessment aims to inform residents of Carversville and surrounding areas about their healthcare options and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Carversville, a rural community, this ratio is likely less favorable than in more urban areas. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventive screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for lung cancer, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Analyzing the precise ratio requires access to up-to-date data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources, but a preliminary assessment suggests a potential challenge in securing timely primary care services within the immediate vicinity. This scarcity of PCPs necessitates exploring options beyond Carversville, potentially including practices in neighboring towns like Doylestown or New Hope.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and communication, the implementation of evidence-based lung cancer screening protocols, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively promote LDCT screening for eligible individuals (those meeting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force criteria: age 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history, and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years) demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including smoking cessation programs and referrals to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons), are highly valued. Researching online reviews, consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups, and seeking recommendations from other healthcare providers can help identify these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, and follow-up appointments. The extent of telemedicine integration among PCPs in Carversville significantly impacts the accessibility of care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living far from a physician's office. Practices that offer telehealth options, particularly for initial consultations or follow-up appointments, are likely to improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

The presence of mental health resources is another critical factor. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. PCPs play a crucial role in recognizing these issues and providing appropriate referrals. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the Carversville area or nearby is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screenings into their routine care and have established referral pathways to mental health services are better equipped to support patients' overall well-being. This includes ensuring access to support groups, counseling, and psychiatric care as needed.

The quality of care is also impacted by the availability of specialized services. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases), oncologists (cancer specialists), and thoracic surgeons (surgeons specializing in the chest) is vital for comprehensive lung cancer care. Proximity to hospitals with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities, such as those offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions, is another important consideration. The presence of these specialists and facilities within a reasonable distance from Carversville significantly influences the patient's ability to receive timely and effective care.

Beyond the immediate availability of medical professionals, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Carversville contributes to the quality of care. This includes the presence of pharmacies for medication access, access to transportation for patients who may not be able to drive themselves, and the availability of support services such as patient navigators or social workers who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. These support services can be especially helpful for patients with lung cancer, who may face significant challenges related to their diagnosis and treatment.

Assessing the adoption of evidence-based practices is crucial. This includes examining whether PCPs adhere to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that proactively screen eligible patients, offer smoking cessation programs, and coordinate care with specialists demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. The use of standardized protocols and the implementation of quality improvement initiatives can further enhance the effectiveness of care delivery.

The financial aspect of healthcare access cannot be overlooked. The acceptance of various insurance plans by PCPs in Carversville is a key factor. Patients with limited insurance coverage or those who are uninsured may face significant financial barriers to accessing care. Practices that offer affordable care options, such as sliding-scale fees or assistance with accessing financial aid programs, can improve access for all members of the community. Transparency regarding costs and billing practices is also essential.

In conclusion, the availability and quality of primary care in Carversville, Pennsylvania, are critical determinants of lung cancer screening and care outcomes. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources require detailed investigation, the general assessment suggests potential challenges related to access and the need for further evaluation of local healthcare practices. The identification of standout practices, the promotion of evidence-based screening protocols, and the integration of mental health services are all crucial for improving patient outcomes.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Carversville and surrounding areas, including the precise locations of medical facilities, the availability of specialists, and other relevant data points, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations and detailed geographic information, providing valuable insights into the healthcare resources available in your community. Explore CartoChrome maps to better understand the healthcare options available to you.