17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.68 percent of the residents in 17045 has some form of health insurance. 36.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.37 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 17045 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 888 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17045. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 678 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,168 health care providers accessible to residents in 17045, Liverpool, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Liverpool, PA (ZIP Code 17045) – A Primary Care Landscape Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 17045, focusing on Liverpool, Pennsylvania. The score considers factors relevant to early lung cancer detection and overall patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. It aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the primary care landscape to inform patient choices and identify areas for potential improvement. The analysis does not endorse any specific practice but rather provides a comparative overview.

The foundation of effective lung cancer screening lies in robust primary care. Regular check-ups, proactive screening recommendations, and patient education are crucial for early detection and improved outcomes. A high-quality primary care system is therefore essential for a population's health, particularly concerning a disease like lung cancer.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

Liverpool, like many rural areas, likely faces challenges related to physician access. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative screenings and treatment. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the overall physician density in the area. A detailed analysis would compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 17045 to state and national averages. A lower ratio, indicating better access, would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of after-hours care and weekend appointments also contributes to accessibility. Practices offering flexible scheduling options are more likely to facilitate timely care and encourage adherence to screening recommendations.

**Practice Characteristics and Screening Practices:**

The Lung Cancer Score also evaluates the practices' approach to lung cancer screening. This includes the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for high-risk individuals.

Practices that actively identify and proactively reach out to eligible patients for screening receive higher scores. This involves utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to identify patients meeting the criteria for LDCT screening (e.g., age, smoking history) and implementing systems to remind patients of appointments and follow-up care. Furthermore, practices that utilize shared decision-making tools to discuss the benefits and risks of screening with patients would score higher.

The availability of on-site diagnostic imaging, such as CT scanners, streamlines the screening process and enhances convenience for patients. Practices that can offer this service would receive a more favorable rating.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas, to improve access to care. Its use can reduce travel time and costs, and increase the likelihood of patients attending appointments. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 17045.

Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and health education receive higher scores. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, for patients requiring further evaluation after a screening. The ability to conduct virtual visits is a key factor in the overall health score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The link between mental health and physical health, including cancer outcomes, is well-established. Patients facing a cancer diagnosis often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score incorporates an assessment of the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals.

Practices that screen for mental health issues, provide on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive higher scores. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health specialists is essential for comprehensive patient care. The inclusion of mental health support is a key component of a holistic approach to health.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into individual practice characteristics. This would involve analyzing patient reviews, assessing the availability of specialized services (e.g., smoking cessation programs), and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on preventative care, patient communication, and care coordination would be highlighted.

For example, a practice that has implemented a robust system for identifying and contacting eligible patients for lung cancer screening, offers on-site mental health services, and actively uses telemedicine for follow-up care would likely receive a high score.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score analysis for Liverpool, PA (17045) provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in relation to lung cancer detection and overall patient well-being. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the score offers a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps:**

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the primary care landscape in Liverpool, PA (17045), and explore physician locations, service offerings, and potential areas for improvement, visit CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and access to care. Explore the maps to discover the primary care resources available in your community.