17403, York, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17403, York, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 17403 has some form of health insurance. 40.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.21 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 17403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17403. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,584 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,940 health care providers accessible to residents in 17403, York, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17403) and Primary Care Availability

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care physicians in York, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 17403 ZIP code, with a focus on factors pertinent to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The 17403 ZIP code, encompassing a portion of York City, presents a unique healthcare environment. The socioeconomic demographics and population density within this area significantly influence healthcare access and quality. Analyzing these factors is vital to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care system in supporting lung cancer patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Determining accurate physician-to-patient ratios is paramount. This data point directly impacts access to timely appointments, preventative screenings, and ongoing care. Ideally, a lower ratio, reflecting more physicians per patient, translates to better access. However, this is a complex calculation. It must consider the availability of board-certified family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and pulmonologists. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants also plays a role, as they can alleviate some of the burden on physicians.

Data collection for this specific area requires meticulous research. Publicly available resources from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide some data. However, a comprehensive analysis demands a deeper dive into insurance provider networks and individual practice information. This level of granular data is crucial for a truly accurate assessment. The presence of a major hospital system in York, such as WellSpan, will likely influence the distribution of physicians and specialists.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, and the availability of comprehensive patient education materials. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs and promoting preventative care are also highly valued.

The presence of practices that prioritize early detection through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, especially for high-risk patients (smokers or former smokers), is a key indicator of quality. These practices should have clear protocols for patient follow-up and referral to specialists when necessary. Additionally, the integration of patient navigation services, which help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, is a significant advantage.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms.

The availability of telemedicine services within primary care practices in 17403 should be assessed. This includes the types of services offered (e.g., video visits, phone consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of access for patients (e.g., user-friendly platforms, technical support), and the integration of telemedicine data into the patient's EHR. The extent to which telemedicine is utilized for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and addressing patient concerns can significantly impact the quality of care.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore critical. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists.

The availability of on-site mental health services, or partnerships with local mental health providers, is a significant asset. Practices should also screen patients for symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Patient education about coping mechanisms, support groups, and available resources is also essential. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan ensures that patients receive holistic support throughout their journey.

**Primary Care Availability in York:**

Beyond the specific ZIP code, the overall primary care availability in York is a significant factor. The geographic distribution of physicians, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the ability to accommodate new patients all influence access to care.

A comprehensive assessment should consider the number of primary care physicians per capita in York County, compared to state and national averages. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other community health clinics can play a crucial role in providing care to underserved populations. Analyzing patient wait times for appointments and the availability of after-hours care are also important factors.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the primary care landscape in 17403 and York, PA, requires a multi-faceted approach. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components. This analysis highlights the importance of accessible, high-quality primary care in supporting lung cancer patients.

To visualize and analyze this data in a comprehensive and dynamic way, we recommend exploring the power of interactive mapping. Leverage the insights gleaned from this analysis and visualize the data with **CartoChrome maps**. See the geographic distribution of physicians, pinpoint practices with advanced screening capabilities, and identify areas with limited access to care. **Click here to explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in York, PA.**