17406, York, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17406, York, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.61 percent of the residents in 17406 has some form of health insurance. 31.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.26 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 17406 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,569 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17406. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,191 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 17406, York, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17406) and Primary Care Access

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care availability within York, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 17406 ZIP code and the broader York County context. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, including access, quality of care, and supportive resources.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the premise that effective lung cancer care is a multifaceted endeavor. It demands not only skilled oncologists and pulmonologists but also readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) for early detection and ongoing management. Moreover, the availability of mental health resources and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine significantly impact patient outcomes.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access in 17406**

While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, a general understanding of the medical professional distribution within the 17406 ZIP code is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, coupled with information from professional directories, can be used to estimate these ratios. A higher ratio of PCPs to the general population, particularly those over 50 (the age group most at risk for lung cancer), suggests better access to preventative screenings and early diagnosis.

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is equally critical. Examining the concentration of these specialists within the 17406 area, or within a reasonable commuting distance, provides insight into the availability of specialized care. The analysis should also consider the capacity of these specialists to accommodate new patients, assessing wait times for appointments and the overall patient load.

**Primary Care Availability in York County**

Beyond the specific ZIP code, the availability of primary care across York County significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score. A county-wide perspective allows for a broader assessment of access, considering factors like transportation limitations and the distribution of healthcare facilities. Areas with a higher concentration of PCPs and clinics, particularly those accepting a variety of insurance plans, contribute positively to the score.

This analysis must evaluate the geographic distribution of primary care practices. Are they clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis is crucial for understanding access disparities. Furthermore, the presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), which often serve vulnerable populations, is a positive indicator of equitable access to care.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves evaluating factors such as the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes receive higher scores.

The analysis should investigate the use of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, and the availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques. Practices that embrace these technologies and consistently implement them are likely to provide a higher level of care.

Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews, while not definitive, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices with consistently positive feedback regarding communication, empathy, and overall care quality are considered favorably. Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) is another indicator of quality.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in the context of lung cancer care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including improved access to specialists for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment and provide convenient follow-up appointments.

The analysis should assess the extent to which practices in the 17406 area and York County have embraced telemedicine. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring programs, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine receive higher scores, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis should examine the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, oncology clinics, and the broader community.

The availability of support groups, counseling services, and palliative care programs specifically tailored to lung cancer patients is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model and offer comprehensive supportive care receive higher scores. This includes access to social workers, patient navigators, and other professionals who can help patients navigate the complexities of their illness.

**Conclusion: A Holistic Assessment**

The Lung Cancer Score is not a simple numerical value. It's a comprehensive assessment based on multiple factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialists, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Practices and the overall healthcare landscape in the 17406 ZIP code and York County that demonstrate a commitment to these factors will receive higher scores, reflecting their ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered lung cancer care.

**Call to Action: Explore the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in York, PA, and visualize the distribution of resources discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data, offering a powerful way to understand access to care and identify areas of need. Visit [Insert CartoChrome Map Link Here] to explore the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of lung cancer care in York.