17240, Newburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17240, Newburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.77 percent of the residents in 17240 has some form of health insurance. 28.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.61 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 17240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,020 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17240. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 583 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,189 health care providers accessible to residents in 17240, Newburg, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17240 and Primary Care Availability in Newburg**

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare resources in ZIP Code 17240 (Newburg, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care availability and its implications for lung cancer screening and treatment. The goal is to assess the landscape of care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients. In ZIP Code 17240, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and a less proactive approach to preventative care. Data from reputable sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) would be essential to determine the exact ratio. This data, combined with local population demographics, paints a clearer picture of access challenges.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within 17240 requires evaluating several factors. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients (e.g., those with a smoking history), are highly desirable. This includes adherence to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient risk factors, schedule screenings, and manage follow-up care are also crucial. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources and support for smoking cessation, are essential.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within 17240 significantly impacts lung cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with PCPs and specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care for those with mobility issues or transportation limitations. The availability of telemedicine platforms for both primary care and specialist consultations (e.g., pulmonologists, oncologists) is crucial. Practices that offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the 17240 area is a significant factor. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, offering on-site counseling or referrals to mental health providers, are highly valued. Access to support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable emotional support for patients and their families. Assessing the availability of these resources is critical for evaluating the overall quality of care.

The specifics of the healthcare landscape within 17240 are subject to change. Regular updates to the information are necessary. This includes the addition of new practices, the implementation of new technologies, and shifts in the availability of mental health resources. The analysis should also consider the presence of specialists in the area. Access to pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices and hospitals is a key factor in determining the efficiency of the care pathway.

The quality of care is also affected by the availability of resources at local hospitals. Hospitals in the area should be assessed for their ability to provide diagnostic imaging (CT scans), surgical services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The presence of a dedicated oncology unit and a multidisciplinary cancer care team is a positive indicator of the quality of care. The accreditation status of hospitals and cancer centers, as determined by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC), is a valuable metric.

The role of insurance coverage cannot be ignored. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and hospitals is a crucial factor in access to care. The analysis should include information on the types of insurance accepted, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured is also an important consideration.

The analysis needs to consider the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, and access to healthy food can significantly impact health outcomes. Areas with a higher prevalence of poverty or limited access to resources may require more targeted interventions. The analysis should identify any community-based programs that address these social determinants of health, such as smoking cessation programs, health education initiatives, and food assistance programs.

The evaluation of primary care availability and its impact on lung cancer care in ZIP Code 17240 is an ongoing process. Regular updates are essential to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that influence the quality of care. It provides a starting point for anyone seeking to understand the access and quality of care in this area.

For a comprehensive visualization of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17240, including the location of practices, hospitals, specialists, and available resources, explore CartoChrome maps.