17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.10 percent of the residents in 17320 has some form of health insurance. 35.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.37 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 17320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,787 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17320. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fairfield, PA (ZIP Code 17320)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in Fairfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17320), considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care within the community, focusing on aspects that can significantly impact patient outcomes. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather an assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

Fairfield, a small town in Adams County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The rural nature of the area can influence the availability of specialists, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. Therefore, the Lung Cancer Score considers these factors in its evaluation.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and other sources will be considered to estimate the PCP-to-patient ratio in 17320. This ratio will be compared to national and state averages to assess Fairfield's relative standing. A lower ratio will negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, especially for patients exhibiting concerning symptoms, will be another factor. Practices that prioritize timely access to care will receive a higher score. The ability to schedule appointments online, a feature that streamlines access, will also be assessed.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout practices requires examining their approaches to lung cancer prevention and early detection. This includes the proactive use of lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., smokers, former smokers). Practices that actively promote screening, offer smoking cessation programs, and educate patients about lung cancer risks will be recognized.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key consideration. EHRs facilitate the efficient management of patient data, enabling physicians to track risk factors, monitor screening results, and coordinate care with specialists. Practices with robust EHR systems, including those that integrate with local hospitals and specialists, will be favorably evaluated.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its ability to bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists and consultations is crucial. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the extent to which PCPs in 17320 utilize telemedicine for patient care. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient access and convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The Lung Cancer Score will evaluate the availability of mental health resources and support services within the primary care practices. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site mental health counseling, have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, and provide resources for coping with the emotional challenges of cancer. Practices that prioritize mental health support will be recognized for their holistic approach to patient care.

**Specific Considerations for Fairfield:**

Given Fairfield's location, the Lung Cancer Score will consider its proximity to larger healthcare centers and hospitals. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, at nearby facilities is a critical factor. The score will also assess the ease with which patients can access these specialists and the level of coordination between PCPs and specialists.

The analysis will also consider the practices’ involvement in community outreach and education. Practices that actively participate in community health fairs, offer educational programs about lung cancer prevention, and partner with local organizations to raise awareness will be viewed favorably.

**Challenges and Limitations:**

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Publicly available data may not always provide a complete picture of the quality of care. Information on specific practices may be limited, and the analysis relies on general healthcare trends and publicly available information. The Lung Cancer Score is intended as an informative assessment and not a definitive ranking. It is recommended that patients consult with their healthcare providers and conduct their own research to make informed decisions about their care.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for PCPs in Fairfield, PA (17320) is a multifaceted assessment that weighs factors like physician-to-patient ratios, access to care, adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices that prioritize early detection, proactive screening, and patient support will receive higher scores. The rural setting of Fairfield presents unique challenges, and the score will consider these factors in its evaluation.

**Enhance Your Understanding with CartoChrome Maps:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Fairfield and explore the distribution of resources, specialists, and other relevant data? CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you understand the healthcare environment in detail. Explore the interactive map to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the area.