17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.15 percent of the residents in 17265 has some form of health insurance. 47.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.66 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 17265 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17265. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 17265, Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for Upperstrasburg (ZIP Code 17265)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare resources in Upperstrasburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17265) is crucial for understanding its capacity to address a serious health concern like lung cancer. This analysis, focusing on primary care availability and the quality of care provided by physicians in the area, aims to provide a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ assessment. This score, though not a numerical value, represents a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in its ability to diagnose, treat, and support patients battling lung cancer. The analysis will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to the overall quality of care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, and their ability to recognize early warning signs, order appropriate screenings, and refer patients to specialists is critical. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Upperstrasburg provides a preliminary indication of access. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, could suggest potential challenges in timely appointments and personalized care. Researching the specific ratio for ZIP Code 17265, ideally comparing it to state and national averages, is the first step in evaluating this aspect. Furthermore, understanding the distribution of PCPs within the area – whether they are concentrated in specific locations or evenly spread – is important. This spatial analysis highlights any potential disparities in access for residents in different parts of Upperstrasburg.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a deeper dive. This involves examining the credentials and specializations of physicians, the services offered by their practices, and their commitment to patient care. Are there practices that have a specific focus on cancer screening or preventative care? Do they utilize advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans, for early detection? Investigating the experience and training of physicians, especially regarding pulmonology and oncology, is paramount. Practices that have a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and potentially surgeons, are often better equipped to provide comprehensive lung cancer care. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Upperstrasburg. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve the ‘Lung Cancer Score’. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and even access to support groups. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires investigating whether local practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and may be better positioned to serve patients who face geographical barriers to accessing care. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists, can be a significant advantage for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the ‘Lung Cancer Score’. Does the area have access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness? Are there support groups available for patients and their families? Investigating the integration of mental health services within local practices or the availability of referrals to mental health providers is essential. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health support and provide easy access to these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of mental health resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients battling lung cancer.

Beyond the core components of medical care, other factors can influence the ‘Lung Cancer Score’. This includes the availability of patient education materials, access to financial assistance programs, and the presence of community outreach initiatives focused on lung cancer awareness and prevention. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide information about support services, and participate in community health programs demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. The availability of these resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and navigate the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

The overall assessment of the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for Upperstrasburg (ZIP Code 17265) will be a composite of these factors. It will reflect the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by local physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of supportive services. While the specific data for Upperstrasburg requires detailed research, this framework provides a guide for evaluating the local healthcare system’s capacity to address lung cancer. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, informing potential improvements and ultimately improving the lives of individuals affected by this disease.

To fully visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape of Upperstrasburg, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize physician distribution, access to healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, providing a clear and actionable understanding of the local healthcare environment.