17402, York, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17402, York, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.36 percent of the residents in 17402 has some form of health insurance. 33.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.06 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 17402 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,502 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17402. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,217 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,011 health care providers accessible to residents in 17402, York, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: York, PA (ZIP Code 17402) & Primary Care Landscape

The health of a community, especially its ability to combat serious illnesses like lung cancer, is intricately woven with the availability and quality of its healthcare providers. This analysis focuses on York, Pennsylvania, specifically examining the landscape of primary care physicians within the 17402 ZIP code and assessing their preparedness in addressing lung cancer concerns. We'll delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and investigate the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors in a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score.

York County, and the 17402 ZIP code in particular, presents a unique challenge. The population density, combined with a potentially aging demographic, places significant pressure on the existing healthcare infrastructure. Analyzing physician-to-patient ratios is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, public health data, and resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health provide crucial insights. A thorough assessment should compare the 17402 area’s ratio to both state and national averages, identifying any disparities that may impact access to care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score. Several factors contribute to a high-quality practice. First, the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers or former smokers), is essential. This includes proactively offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Second, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is crucial for efficient data management, care coordination, and timely communication with specialists. EHRs facilitate the tracking of patient histories, screening results, and referrals, improving the overall patient experience. Third, the commitment to patient education is vital. Practices should provide clear and concise information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies.

Identifying standout practices within the 17402 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings, and assessing the practice's commitment to ongoing professional development. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as offering free health screenings or educational workshops, demonstrate a proactive approach to preventative care. Furthermore, practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as WellSpan or UPMC, may have access to advanced resources, specialized expertise, and streamlined referral pathways, potentially boosting their Lung Cancer Score. Specific practice names are excluded to maintain objectivity.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including improved access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients who may require frequent check-ups. The Lung Cancer Score considers the extent to which primary care practices in 17402 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into their EHR systems.

The mental health of patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and their ability to cope with a lung cancer diagnosis. Lung cancer, and the treatments that follow, can be emotionally taxing. The Lung Cancer Score must assess the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks. This includes evaluating whether practices have on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or established referral pathways to mental health specialists. The ability to address the psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their adherence to treatment plans.

The primary care landscape in York, PA, is a complex system. Addressing lung cancer requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves a thorough understanding of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive Lung Cancer Score must consider all these factors to provide an accurate assessment of the community's preparedness.

Ultimately, a high Lung Cancer Score reflects a healthcare system that prioritizes preventative care, early detection, and comprehensive patient support. This requires a collaborative effort involving primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, community organizations, and the patients themselves. By continually evaluating and improving these key areas, York, PA, can strive to improve its Lung Cancer Score and provide the best possible care for its residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points within the 17402 ZIP code and beyond, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape, allowing you to visualize data and identify areas of need.