Health Scores Near 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
You may also like
The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 88.29 percent of the residents in 17257 has some form of health insurance. 31.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.22 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 17257 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 6,985 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17257. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,927 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,908 health care providers accessible to residents in 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17257, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
| Lung Cancer Score | 22 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 8 |
| Provider Score | 65 |
| Hospital Score | 46 |
| Travel Score | 30 |
| 17257 | Shippensburg | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Shippensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17257)
This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within Shippensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17257), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, specifically the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a nuanced “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering the impact of these elements on patient outcomes and overall access to care.
Shippensburg, a primarily rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Geographic isolation, socioeconomic factors, and an aging population can all influence access to timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation must consider these contextual realities.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio in Shippensburg is a critical indicator of accessibility. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and relevant healthcare databases should be consulted to ascertain the precise ratio.
Furthermore, the types of primary care providers available are significant. Are there enough family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners to meet the community's needs? The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also crucial, though their direct availability might be limited within the ZIP code itself. Access to these specialists, even if located in nearby towns or cities, is a key consideration. The existence of referral pathways and the efficiency of communication between primary care physicians and specialists are equally important.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**
Identifying standout primary care practices within Shippensburg requires a detailed review of their operational characteristics and service offerings. Factors to consider include: the acceptance of new patients, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data sharing, and the provision of comprehensive preventative care services, including smoking cessation programs.
Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as low-dose CT scans for eligible individuals, demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays, can streamline the diagnostic process. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide clear, accessible information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options are also highly valued. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided by each practice.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Implications:**
Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Shippensburg. Its adoption rate amongst primary care providers and specialists directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can reduce travel burdens for patients, improve adherence to treatment plans, and facilitate timely access to specialist consultations.
The types of telemedicine services offered are also important. Are video consultations available? Can patients access their medical records and communicate with their providers electronically? The integration of telemedicine with existing healthcare systems is crucial for seamless care coordination. The availability of reliable internet access for patients is a key consideration, as is the training and support provided to both patients and providers in utilizing telemedicine technologies.
**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, the availability and integration of mental health resources are critical components of comprehensive care. Primary care practices that screen for depression and anxiety, and provide access to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.
The presence of on-site mental health providers, or established referral pathways to mental health specialists, is highly desirable. The ability to coordinate care between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is crucial for addressing the psychological needs of patients. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and educational resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients receive the support they need throughout their journey, is a key indicator of a high-quality healthcare system.
**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion:**
The “Lung Cancer Score” for Shippensburg, PA (ZIP code 17257) is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. A high score reflects robust primary care availability, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, widespread telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive integration of mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.
The availability of specialists, the efficiency of referral pathways, and the quality of communication between healthcare providers are also key determinants. The score should not be viewed as a definitive judgment, but rather as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met effectively.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shippensburg, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and informative view of healthcare access, allowing you to visualize the factors discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care within your community.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like
