17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.73 percent of the residents in 17267 has some form of health insurance. 38.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.12 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 17267 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 566 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17267. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 607 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 361 health care providers accessible to residents in 17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Warfordsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17267)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 17267, encompassing Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of medical professionals but also the broader healthcare infrastructure, including access to primary care, mental health resources, and the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis will provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These professionals are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. In Warfordsburg, the primary care physician availability directly impacts the ability to identify and address potential lung cancer cases promptly. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, a less favorable prognosis for individuals at risk. Researching the specific ratio within Warfordsburg and comparing it to state and national averages will be a critical first step in determining the area's score.

Beyond the raw numbers, we must assess the quality of primary care practices. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening? Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools? The presence of these factors would significantly elevate the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, practices with limited resources or a lack of focus on preventative care would negatively impact the score. Identifying standout practices, those demonstrating a commitment to proactive patient care and early detection, is crucial. These practices can serve as models for improvement and potentially offer specialized services that benefit the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and specialist referrals, can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially for those living in rural areas. The utilization of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, increase access to specialists, and facilitate timely communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services within Warfordsburg’s medical practices will be a key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that embrace telemedicine will receive higher marks, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. Patients facing a cancer diagnosis often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups is essential for providing holistic care and improving patient well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within Warfordsburg, including the presence of mental health professionals, support groups, and mental health integration within primary care practices, is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the degree to which mental health resources are integrated into the overall care continuum.

Specific practices in Warfordsburg will be evaluated based on their commitment to lung cancer care. This includes assessing their participation in lung cancer screening programs, their use of evidence-based treatment protocols, and their collaboration with specialists. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists in or near the area is also critical. The Lung Cancer Score will give credit to practices that actively participate in these programs and demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive care. Information on the availability of these specialists, including their qualifications and experience, is essential.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the accessibility of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The availability of CT scanners for lung cancer screening, as well as access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy services, is essential for providing comprehensive care. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the ease with which patients can access these critical services within Warfordsburg or in nearby communities. The proximity to hospitals with specialized cancer centers will be a significant factor in this assessment.

Finally, we will consider the overall health of the community. Factors such as smoking rates, air quality, and access to healthy food options can all impact lung cancer risk and outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score will incorporate these factors, recognizing that a healthier community is more likely to have better lung cancer outcomes. Public health initiatives aimed at reducing smoking rates and promoting healthy lifestyles will be viewed favorably.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Warfordsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17267) will be a composite measure reflecting the availability of primary care, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized cancer care, and the overall health of the community. This score will provide a valuable assessment of the region's ability to effectively address lung cancer and improve patient outcomes.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Warfordsburg and gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.