17073, Newmanstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17073, Newmanstown, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.00 percent of the residents in 17073 has some form of health insurance. 21.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.70 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 17073 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,819 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17073. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 771 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,809 health care providers accessible to residents in 17073, Newmanstown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Newmanstown, PA (ZIP Code 17073)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of lung cancer care within Newmanstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17073), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, considering factors that influence early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer. This assessment will culminate in a call to action, encouraging the utilization of advanced mapping tools for further exploration.

Newmanstown, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. A critical aspect of lung cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians. PCPs are often the first point of contact, crucial for early screening, risk assessment, and referrals. The physician-to-patient ratio within the 17073 ZIP code is a vital metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association are essential to determine this ratio accurately. Publicly available information on physician demographics and practice locations must be consulted to build an initial understanding.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there practices accepting new patients, or are waitlists common? These factors impact the ease with which residents can access preventative care. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance is also a key consideration. While these specialists might not be located directly in Newmanstown, their proximity and the ease of referral pathways are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These practices might demonstrate exemplary patient care, offer comprehensive screening programs, or have a strong track record of early lung cancer detection. Identifying these practices requires evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, if available, can provide insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Data on the types of screening offered, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, are also essential. Practices that proactively engage in patient education and smoking cessation programs also deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Newmanstown. It can reduce the need for travel, improve access to specialists, and facilitate follow-up appointments. The availability of telehealth services for primary care consultations, specialist referrals, and mental health support should be assessed. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially reach a wider patient base and provide more convenient care options.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a significant role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. The analysis should identify local mental health providers, assess their capacity to serve patients with cancer, and evaluate the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

The effectiveness of smoking cessation programs is another key indicator of healthcare quality. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are crucial for prevention and early intervention. The analysis should evaluate the availability and accessibility of smoking cessation resources in the Newmanstown area. This includes identifying programs offered by local healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies. The success rates of these programs should also be considered, if data is available.

The analysis should also consider the presence of community outreach programs. These programs can play a vital role in educating the public about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and screening options. They can also help to connect individuals with resources and support services. The analysis should identify any local organizations that are actively involved in lung cancer awareness and prevention efforts.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the socioeconomic factors within the community. Factors like income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly impact healthcare access and outcomes. The analysis should consider these factors and their potential impact on lung cancer care in Newmanstown.

Finally, the analysis must synthesize all the collected data to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the Newmanstown area. This score should reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care, taking into account the availability of primary care physicians, specialist services, telemedicine options, mental health resources, smoking cessation programs, and community outreach initiatives. This score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a valuable snapshot of the local healthcare landscape.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania, specifically in the context of lung cancer care. The analysis should provide actionable insights and highlight areas for improvement. This is not simply a numerical exercise; it's an assessment of the community's capacity to support its residents in their fight against a devastating disease.

To gain a more granular understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we strongly encourage the use of advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to explore the landscape of care in Newmanstown and beyond. By utilizing these tools, you can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care within your community.