19064, Springfield, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19064, Springfield, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.97 percent of the residents in 19064 has some form of health insurance. 25.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.46 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 19064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,081 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 390 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19064. An estimate of 84 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,547 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90,898 health care providers accessible to residents in 19064, Springfield, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Springfield, PA (ZIP Code 19064)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Springfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19064), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and the availability of primary care services. The goal is to develop a “Lung Cancer Score” based on key indicators, offering insights into the quality, accessibility, and potential challenges faced by residents in this area. This score is not a single numerical value, but a qualitative evaluation considering various aspects of the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening and prompt referrals are critical. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a primary consideration. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio in 19064. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving underserved pockets? This analysis will explore the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code, examining whether access is equitable across all neighborhoods. Factors like insurance acceptance (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance) will also be assessed, as this impacts access for different segments of the population.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout primary care practices is crucial. This involves evaluating several criteria: the scope of services offered, the patient satisfaction levels, and the adoption of best practices in preventative care. Practices known for emphasizing preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer, will be highly regarded. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, will be examined to gauge patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the practices' affiliations with larger healthcare systems or hospitals. These affiliations often provide access to specialized services, advanced diagnostic equipment, and comprehensive cancer care programs. Practices integrated within such networks are likely to offer a more coordinated and streamlined approach to patient care, which is particularly important for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly for providing care in underserved areas and for managing chronic conditions. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 19064 is a significant factor. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are considered to be more accessible and patient-centered.

The analysis will assess the types of telemedicine services offered, including the ability to schedule appointments, access medical records, and communicate with physicians electronically. The impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes, such as improved adherence to treatment plans and reduced hospital readmissions, will also be considered.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are incredibly stressful, impacting patients' mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis will investigate the availability of these resources within the 19064 ZIP code and surrounding areas.

This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals per capita, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, psychiatric services), and the accessibility of these resources (insurance acceptance, wait times). The presence of specialized support groups for cancer patients and their families will also be evaluated. Strong integration between primary care practices and mental health providers is a positive indicator.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Care:**

Beyond general primary care and mental health, the analysis will delve into factors specifically related to lung cancer. This includes the availability of:

* **Lung Cancer Screening Programs:** Are local practices actively participating in lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers)?
* **Pulmonology Specialists:** The proximity and availability of pulmonologists (lung specialists) are essential for diagnosis and treatment.
* **Oncology Services:** Access to oncologists, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy services is critical for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The analysis will examine the presence of these services within the area or within a reasonable distance.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and palliative care, will be considered. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care and improve their quality of life.

**Overall Assessment and Score Development:**

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Springfield, PA (19064) will be a qualitative assessment based on the above factors. It will consider the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking lung cancer care. A higher score would indicate better access to primary care, robust screening programs, readily available specialists, and comprehensive support services. A lower score would highlight potential barriers to care, such as limited access to PCPs, a lack of screening programs, and a scarcity of mental health resources.

This analysis will not produce a single number. Instead, it will provide a narrative assessment that highlights the key aspects of the healthcare environment in 19064, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocating for improvements in the local healthcare system.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Springfield, PA (19064) is vital for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of care, particularly concerning lung cancer. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and lung cancer-specific services, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this community.

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