16734, James City, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16734, James City, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.04 percent of the residents in 16734 has some form of health insurance. 44.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.98 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 16734 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 31 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16734. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 64 health care providers accessible to residents in 16734, James City, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16734 and Primary Care Availability in James City**

The health of a community, particularly its ability to combat a serious disease like lung cancer, is intricately linked to the accessibility and quality of its healthcare resources. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 16734, encompassing the James City area, to assess the landscape of primary care physicians and their readiness to address lung cancer concerns. We will evaluate the availability of doctors, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the community's preparedness.

James City, Pennsylvania, within the 16734 ZIP code, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The rural nature of the area often translates to lower population density, which can impact the physician-to-patient ratio. A critical factor in determining the community's lung cancer readiness is the availability of primary care physicians. These doctors are the first line of defense, responsible for early detection, patient education, and referrals to specialists. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

The ideal physician-to-patient ratio varies, but generally, a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) indicates better access. We must examine the actual figures for 16734. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state health departments can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. This data will be the basis for a preliminary score, reflecting the ease with which residents can access primary care.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care is paramount. We will look for standout practices within the James City area. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, preventive medicine, and proactive lung cancer screening protocols. This could include the use of advanced imaging techniques, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about lung cancer risks and promoting early detection, will also score higher.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate in 16734 is a crucial factor. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients who may have difficulty traveling to a clinic. A higher adoption rate of telemedicine will positively influence the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the James City area. It will also consider whether primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services. Practices that integrate mental health support into their patient care model will receive a higher score.

The integration of mental health services is not just about providing access to therapists; it’s about creating a supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their emotional needs. This includes educating patients about the link between mental health and physical well-being, and addressing the stigma often associated with mental illness. Primary care physicians who are trained to recognize and address the signs of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can play a vital role in improving patient outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, considering physician-to-patient ratios, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance. A higher score will indicate a community that is better equipped to address the challenges of lung cancer. This will be a dynamic score, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new data becomes available.

To assess the quality of care, we will look for practices that have implemented evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines recommend annual LDCT scans for individuals at high risk for lung cancer, including those who are current smokers or have a history of smoking. Practices that actively screen eligible patients and provide timely referrals to specialists will be recognized for their commitment to early detection.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options will score higher. This includes educational resources about smoking cessation, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Educating patients empowers them to take an active role in their own health and make informed decisions about their care.

Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate the availability of support groups and other resources for lung cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Practices that actively connect patients with these resources will be recognized for their commitment to holistic care.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in James City, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 16734. It will highlight areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed. This information can be used by healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents to make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation. It can also serve as a benchmark for measuring progress over time.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources in James City and surrounding areas, and to explore the data in a dynamic, interactive format, we invite you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access and planning.