17317, East Prospect, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17317, East Prospect, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.51 percent of the residents in 17317 has some form of health insurance. 26.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.46 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 17317 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 146 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17317. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 59 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,711 health care providers accessible to residents in 17317, East Prospect, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: East Prospect, PA (ZIP Code 17317)

This analysis examines the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17317, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care, specifically the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to create a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, although a precise numerical score isn't achievable without proprietary data. Instead, this analysis provides a qualitative evaluation, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the context of early detection, diagnosis, and management of lung cancer. This analysis also considers the specific geographical area of East Prospect.

East Prospect, Pennsylvania, a small community within ZIP Code 17317, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to lower population density and, consequently, potentially fewer healthcare providers. This situation can affect the time it takes to get an appointment with a primary care physician, a crucial first step in lung cancer screening and early detection.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Assessing primary care availability is paramount. The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy begins with accessible primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are vital for screening, risk assessment, and patient education. They act as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through the diagnostic process and coordinating care with specialists.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in East Prospect requires detailed data, but we can make some assumptions based on publicly available information. The overall physician-to-population ratio for York County, where East Prospect is located, might provide a general indication, but it is important to note that this can be misleading. The ratio will vary significantly depending on the specific location within the county and the distribution of providers.

If the ratio is relatively high, it may suggest a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments. This delay can be particularly detrimental in the context of lung cancer, where early detection is critical for improved outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio might indicate better access, allowing for more timely screenings and interventions.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the 17317 ZIP code requires a review of various factors. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive screening programs, and have a strong track record of patient satisfaction are valuable. These practices are more likely to provide high-quality care, including proactive screening for individuals at high risk for lung cancer.

The practices that excel in this area are often those that are well-integrated with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. This integration ensures seamless referrals and coordinated care, which is essential for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The presence of a dedicated nurse navigator or care coordinator within a practice can also significantly improve patient outcomes by guiding them through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Critical Element:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists can significantly improve access to care for patients in East Prospect.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 17317 ZIP code is a key factor in this assessment. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, reduce travel burdens for patients, and provide more convenient access to care. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer, allowing for early detection of complications and adjustments to treatment plans.

**Mental Health Resources: An Overlooked Necessity:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is crucial for supporting patients and their families. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common among cancer patients, and addressing these needs is essential for overall well-being and treatment adherence.

The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or in the broader community is a critical factor. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work directly with primary care providers, can improve access to mental health support and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.

**Synthesis and Conclusion:**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in East Prospect (ZIP Code 17317) for lung cancer care requires a holistic approach. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources are all critical factors.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for this area is dependent on several factors. A high score would indicate good access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would suggest challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

The specific practices in East Prospect that are excelling in lung cancer care are those that are proactive in screening, well-integrated with specialists, and prioritize patient education and support. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health services are also crucial elements for a high score.

This analysis provides a general overview of the healthcare landscape in East Prospect. For a more in-depth understanding, it is recommended to utilize mapping tools that provide detailed information on healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Prospect, and to identify potential opportunities for improvement, explore the advanced mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome can provide a more detailed analysis of the healthcare resources available in the area, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers. By leveraging these tools, you can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in East Prospect and identify areas where improvements are needed.