17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 17363 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.34 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 17363 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17363. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,721 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

This analysis provides a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians within the 17363 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This score is not a real, validated metric, but a conceptual framework built upon publicly available data and best practices. The score aims to highlight strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape as it relates to lung cancer care. The analysis also considers primary care availability in Stewartstown, PA.

The primary care landscape in Stewartstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17363), plays a crucial role in lung cancer outcomes. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, making the accessibility and quality of primary care paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of preventative screening protocols, telemedicine capabilities, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which impact a patient's journey from potential risk to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of physician density in the 17363 ZIP code. A lower ratio, indicating more readily available primary care physicians, would positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score." However, it is vital to note that the raw ratio alone does not tell the entire story.

Standout practices, identified through patient reviews, online ratings, and professional recognitions, can significantly impact the overall score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening, such as utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, would receive higher marks. The availability of smoking cessation programs, integrated within the primary care setting, is another critical factor. Practices actively promoting and facilitating these programs demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, directly impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." These practices often have a dedicated team to provide counseling, medication management, and support groups, all essential for successful smoking cessation.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices offering telehealth consultations can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and behavioral health support. The ability to conduct virtual visits for discussing symptoms, reviewing test results, and providing patient education can streamline the care process and reduce barriers to access. A practice with robust telemedicine capabilities would receive a higher score. This includes the availability of secure video conferencing platforms, patient portals for communication, and the ability to integrate telehealth services into the existing workflow.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of lung cancer care, yet they are crucial for patient well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals to qualified professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The "Lung Cancer Score" would be positively influenced by practices that prioritize mental health support for their patients.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would also evaluate the availability of resources for financial assistance and patient navigation. Navigating the healthcare system, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing financial aid can be overwhelming for patients. Practices that offer assistance with these challenges, such as patient navigators or social workers, would receive higher marks. This includes providing information on financial assistance programs, helping patients understand their insurance benefits, and coordinating care with specialists.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the adoption of new screening technologies, the availability of new treatments, and the evolving needs of patients. The score should also be transparent, with the methodology and data sources clearly documented. This allows for continuous improvement and ensures that the score accurately reflects the quality of lung cancer care in the 17363 ZIP code.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for primary care physicians in the 17363 ZIP code is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. By evaluating these factors, the score aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to improve early detection rates, treatment outcomes, and the overall quality of life for individuals at risk of or affected by lung cancer in Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 17363 ZIP code and beyond, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and make informed decisions.