18947, Pipersville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18947, Pipersville, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.22 percent of the residents in 18947 has some form of health insurance. 22.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.22 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 18947 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,002 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18947. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 18947, Pipersville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Pipersville, PA (ZIP Code 18947)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 18947 (Pipersville, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in the patient journey. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area, aiding residents in making informed healthcare decisions.

Pipersville, a small community, presents a unique challenge in healthcare access. The LCS, in this context, weighs the availability of resources against the potential limitations of a rural environment. Access to timely diagnosis and treatment is paramount, and the analysis will highlight areas where the local healthcare system excels and where improvements are needed.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Pipersville, a thorough investigation would begin by determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the zip code and the surrounding areas that serve the population. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau, can provide population estimates. Comparing these figures yields a physician-to-patient ratio, which is then compared to national and state averages. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses for lung cancer.

Standout practices within the area require specific identification. This involves researching practices that are known for their commitment to preventative care, including robust screening programs for lung cancer. These practices might utilize low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, as recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Further, it is important to assess if these practices are affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as Doylestown Hospital, which can offer a broader range of specialized services, including pulmonology, oncology, and surgical expertise.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even consultations with specialists located outside the immediate area. The LCS will consider the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs and specialists, evaluating the types of services offered and the ease of access for patients. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and care continuity.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical factor in the LCS. A lung cancer diagnosis is a significant emotional burden, and access to mental health support can greatly improve a patient's quality of life and overall well-being. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, within the Pipersville area or easily accessible to residents. This includes assessing whether PCPs routinely screen for mental health issues and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health services. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models will be recognized for their holistic approach.

A comprehensive LCS will also factor in the availability of support groups and patient education resources. Lung cancer patients benefit from connecting with others who share similar experiences. The analysis will assess whether local hospitals, clinics, or cancer support organizations offer support groups, educational workshops, or access to reliable information about lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Practices that actively promote patient education and support will be favorably evaluated.

Specific examples of practices demonstrating excellence in lung cancer care will be highlighted. This might include practices that have implemented robust screening programs, have a dedicated nurse navigator to guide patients through the treatment process, or actively participate in clinical trials. These practices serve as models for others in the area and contribute to a higher overall LCS for the region.

The analysis acknowledges that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New technologies, treatment options, and care models are continuously emerging. The LCS will reflect the current state of healthcare in Pipersville, while also considering the potential for future improvements. This includes evaluating the practices' willingness to adopt new technologies and their commitment to ongoing professional development.

The final LCS score will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted importance of each factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, availability of preventative care, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources will all contribute to the final score. The score will provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Pipersville, offering residents a valuable tool for making informed decisions about their health.

This analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their physicians to determine the best course of treatment. The LCS is a tool for understanding the local healthcare landscape and should be used in conjunction with other sources of information.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pipersville, PA (ZIP Code 18947), and to explore the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, offering a valuable perspective on healthcare accessibility and resource distribution.