17217, Concord, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.69 percent of the residents in 17217 has some form of health insurance. 40.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.17 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 17217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,486 health care providers accessible to residents in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17217 and Primary Care Availability in Concord**

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 17217, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and its implications for lung cancer screening and treatment. Simultaneously, it examines the broader context of primary care access in Concord, providing a comparative perspective. The goal is to assess the readiness of these communities to address lung cancer concerns, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

ZIP code 17217, likely encompassing a specific geographic area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses of conditions like lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive screening and earlier intervention. Determining the precise ratio requires accessing publicly available data or utilizing specialized healthcare databases. This initial assessment is critical for understanding the baseline level of care available.

Standout practices within 17217 can significantly influence the overall quality of care. These practices might be distinguished by their patient-centered approach, advanced diagnostic capabilities, or commitment to preventative medicine. For example, a practice that actively promotes lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers, demonstrates a proactive approach. Another indicator of excellence is the integration of electronic health records (EHRs), which facilitates seamless information sharing and coordination of care among specialists. Practices that participate in clinical trials or offer innovative treatment options also contribute to a higher standard of care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to care by reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of patients, provide access to specialists, and deliver educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide timely care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease can be significant, and access to mental health professionals is crucial for providing support and coping mechanisms. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Primary care availability in Concord, a separate geographical location, provides a comparative benchmark. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Concord allows for a comparison of access to care between the two areas. Concord might have a higher or lower ratio than 17217, providing insights into the relative strengths and weaknesses of each location. The presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers or hospitals in Concord can also influence the overall care landscape.

The quality of primary care in Concord can be assessed by examining the same factors used for 17217: the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Comparing these factors across both locations provides a valuable perspective on the healthcare landscape. For example, if Concord has a higher physician-to-patient ratio and more widespread telemedicine adoption, it might be better equipped to address lung cancer concerns.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of both areas. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of smoking can influence the need for lung cancer screening and treatment. Areas with a higher proportion of older adults or a higher smoking rate might require more robust healthcare resources. Understanding the demographic profile is essential for tailoring healthcare services to the specific needs of the community.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of lung cancer screening programs. Screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is recommended for individuals at high risk for lung cancer. The availability of these programs, as well as the adherence to screening guidelines, is a critical indicator of the quality of care. Practices that actively participate in screening programs and follow established guidelines demonstrate a commitment to early detection and improved patient outcomes.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in 17217 and Concord should not be limited to the availability of PCPs. It is also important to consider the access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The coordination of care between PCPs and specialists is essential for providing comprehensive treatment. The presence of specialized cancer centers or hospitals in either location can significantly impact the quality of care.

The analysis of telemedicine adoption should also consider the types of services offered. Some practices might offer virtual consultations, while others might provide remote monitoring of patients. The availability of these services can vary widely. The adoption of telemedicine can be influenced by factors such as internet access, patient demographics, and the willingness of physicians to embrace technology.

The integration of mental health resources should be assessed in detail. This includes the availability of on-site therapists, the use of screening tools for depression and anxiety, and the referral process for external mental health providers. The integration of mental health services is essential for providing comprehensive care.

In conclusion, assessing the readiness of 17217 and Concord to address lung cancer concerns requires a multifaceted approach. It is essential to consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of screening programs. A comprehensive analysis will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each location.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, practice locations, and access to care, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to analyze healthcare data and make informed decisions.