17408, York, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17408, York, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 17408 has some form of health insurance. 32.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.03 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 17408 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,875 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17408. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,623 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,903 health care providers accessible to residents in 17408, York, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17408) & Primary Care Availability**

The health landscape of York, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 17408 ZIP code, and the broader context of primary care access, is critical when considering lung cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite evaluation reflecting the quality and accessibility of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The score is not a single number but rather a qualitative assessment based on various factors.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental element of the Lung Cancer Score is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection is paramount in lung cancer, and PCPs often serve as the first point of contact. The physician-to-patient ratio in York County, and more specifically within the 17408 ZIP code, is a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could potentially hinder timely access to screenings, referrals, and ongoing care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau is essential to determine this ratio accurately.

The geographical distribution of PCPs within the 17408 ZIP code is also crucial. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, creating healthcare deserts for some residents? Transportation challenges, particularly for elderly or low-income patients, can exacerbate these disparities. The presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers, which often serve underserved populations, would positively influence the score.

**Specialist Availability and Referral Pathways**

Beyond PCPs, the availability of specialists is a significant factor. This includes pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the 17408 ZIP code and the efficiency of referral pathways from PCPs are vital. The Lung Cancer Score considers the presence of comprehensive cancer centers, offering multidisciplinary care, clinical trials, and advanced treatment options. Hospitals like WellSpan York Hospital play a critical role in the region. Their capabilities in lung cancer diagnosis (e.g., advanced imaging, bronchoscopy) and treatment (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy) significantly impact the score.

**Standout Practices and Centers of Excellence**

Identifying practices and centers that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care is a core component of the analysis. This involves researching practices with a proven track record, perhaps through patient outcomes data, accreditations (e.g., from the Commission on Cancer), and participation in clinical trials. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, would receive higher marks. The use of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, is another positive indicator.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The Lung Cancer Score evaluates the adoption of telemedicine by practices and hospitals within the 17408 ZIP code and the broader York area. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially improving patient convenience and reducing travel burdens. The availability of telehealth services for mental health support, which is crucial for patients coping with a cancer diagnosis, is also a factor.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Services**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources and support services is a critical element of the Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, support groups, and counseling services specializing in cancer care. The presence of social workers and patient navigators within healthcare settings who can connect patients with these resources is also a positive indicator. The integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a sign of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Assistance**

The affordability of care is a major concern for many patients. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of insurance coverage options and financial assistance programs for lung cancer patients. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, as well as the availability of programs to help patients with the costs of treatment, medications, and other expenses. Information about patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies and cancer support organizations is also relevant.

**Community Outreach and Education**

A strong Lung Cancer Score reflects community outreach and education efforts. This includes initiatives to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, promote early detection through screening, and provide information about treatment options. Practices and hospitals that actively participate in community events, offer educational materials, and partner with patient advocacy groups receive higher marks.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

The Lung Cancer Score is derived from a combination of publicly available data, healthcare provider websites, and potentially, direct outreach to local practices and hospitals. Data sources include the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and professional organizations like the American Cancer Society. The methodology involves a qualitative assessment of the factors discussed above, with weighting assigned to each factor based on its relative importance.

**Conclusion**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape within the 17408 ZIP code and the broader York area reveals a complex interplay of factors that influence the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for understanding these factors and identifying areas of strength and weakness. It highlights the importance of access to PCPs, specialist availability, the adoption of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health resources.

The assessment is dynamic and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment. To visualize the distribution of physicians, hospitals, and support services within the 17408 ZIP code and surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.