17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.96 percent of the residents in 17019 has some form of health insurance. 31.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.55 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 17019 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 46 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17019. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,425 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,636 health care providers accessible to residents in 17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 17019 (Dillsburg, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding areas, focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive care model. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform patient choices and guide potential improvements.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Dillsburg, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. A higher ratio of patients per PCP can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health should be consulted to determine the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17019 and the surrounding York County. Areas with lower ratios, indicating a greater concentration of PCPs, are generally more favorable for patients. This also extends to pulmonologists and oncologists, specialists crucial for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable geographic radius is essential for timely and effective care.

Standout practices in Dillsburg, and the broader region, are characterized by several key attributes. These include a commitment to evidence-based medicine, a patient-centered approach, and a focus on preventative care. Practices that proactively screen for lung cancer, particularly among high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer), are of particular importance. The implementation of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is a critical element of early detection. Practices that offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, demonstrate a commitment to reducing lung cancer risk factors. Practices that have earned accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for their imaging services, or the Commission on Cancer (CoC) for their cancer programs, often indicate a higher standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Dillsburg. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to serve patients, especially those with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support for patients undergoing cancer treatment. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a crucial factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model are better equipped to support patients throughout their treatment journey. This includes providing access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is essential to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they need. Screening for mental health conditions and providing appropriate referrals are critical components of a patient-centered approach. The availability of resources like the American Cancer Society and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, can be critical.

The assessment of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Dillsburg requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating practice characteristics, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape. The information presented in this analysis is intended to be used as a starting point for further research. The availability of data may vary, and continuous monitoring is necessary to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dillsburg and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and access to resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of healthcare providers, assess the geographic distribution of specialists, and evaluate access to essential services. Explore CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.