29591, Scranton, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 29591 has some form of health insurance. 41.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.57 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 29591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 725 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 29591 & Primary Care Availability in Scranton

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on their preparedness to address lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. We will also examine the availability of PCPs in ZIP Code 29591, a coastal area, and compare the two areas. A "Lung Cancer Score" is implicitly developed through an evaluation of factors impacting early detection, referral pathways, and patient support within the primary care landscape.

Scranton, a city with a significant population, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The availability of PCPs is the cornerstone of early lung cancer detection. Regular checkups, including screening recommendations for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), are crucial. The ratio of physicians to patients is a key indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a high patient load per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio in Scranton, comparing it to national averages and identifying any disparities.

The presence of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists is another vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. While PCPs are the gatekeepers for initial assessment, the availability of specialists for diagnosis and treatment is essential. This includes access to advanced imaging technologies like low-dose CT scans, which are critical for early detection. The geographical proximity of these specialists to PCPs is also an important factor, as it impacts referral times and patient convenience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. The ability of PCPs to conduct virtual consultations, review imaging results remotely, and connect patients with specialists via telehealth platforms can significantly improve the efficiency of the diagnostic and treatment process. We will evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Scranton, considering its impact on patient access and care coordination.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are incredibly important. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling and support groups, within the primary care network is a critical factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score. We will assess the integration of mental health services into the primary care practices in Scranton.

In contrast, ZIP Code 29591, a coastal area, presents a different set of circumstances. While the specific demographic and healthcare infrastructure of this area are not detailed in this prompt, we can infer some general considerations. Coastal areas often have a higher proportion of elderly residents, a population group with an increased risk of lung cancer. The availability of PCPs, specialists, and screening facilities within this ZIP code is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score for this area will be influenced by factors such as population density, the presence of seasonal residents, and the overall healthcare infrastructure.

Standout practices within Scranton and ZIP Code 29591, if any, will be identified. These practices may excel in areas such as patient education, proactive screening programs, or seamless referral pathways. Their best practices can serve as models for other practices to improve their Lung Cancer Score. This analysis will highlight any practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

The comparison between Scranton and ZIP Code 29591 will reveal the relative strengths and weaknesses of each area in terms of lung cancer preparedness. This comparison will highlight the importance of tailored strategies to address the specific needs of each community. It will also underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of healthcare services to ensure equitable access to quality care.

The quality of primary care in Scranton and ZIP Code 29591 is not just about the number of physicians available; it is about the overall quality of care provided. This includes the physician's expertise, the availability of resources, and the integration of mental health services. The Lung Cancer Score is a holistic measure of these factors, reflecting the capacity of the primary care system to detect, diagnose, and support patients with lung cancer.

The availability of resources for smoking cessation programs within the primary care network is another important factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with access to evidence-based smoking cessation programs is a critical step in preventing the disease. We will assess the availability and effectiveness of these programs within the primary care practices in both areas.

The analysis will also consider the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. The availability of affordable health insurance is essential for ensuring that all individuals have access to the necessary screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment. We will examine the rates of health insurance coverage in Scranton and ZIP Code 29591 and assess their impact on the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the introduction of new screening technologies or the expansion of telehealth services. This ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that the primary care system is continuously improving its ability to address lung cancer.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the primary care landscape in Scranton and ZIP Code 29591, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each area in terms of lung cancer preparedness. This information can be used to inform healthcare policy decisions, improve patient care, and ultimately, reduce the burden of lung cancer.

To visualize the data and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and screening facilities, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.