17884, Washingtonville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17884, Washingtonville, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17884 has some form of health insurance. 55.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.74 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 17884 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17884. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,654 health care providers accessible to residents in 17884, Washingtonville, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Washingtonville, PA (ZIP Code 17884)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Washingtonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17884) necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of specialized medical professionals but also the broader context of primary care access, technological integration, and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of skilled physicians. In Washingtonville, the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons directly impacts the quality and timeliness of diagnosis and treatment. Determining the exact number of specialists practicing *within* ZIP code 17884 presents a challenge, as physician practices often serve broader regional areas. However, data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association (AMA), and health insurance provider directories can be utilized to estimate the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a critical indicator of access; a lower ratio (more physicians per patient) generally translates to better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments.

The proximity of specialists is another crucial factor. If specialists are located outside the immediate ZIP code, travel time becomes a significant consideration, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing mobility limitations. This necessitates an evaluation of the distance to the nearest specialized centers, including hospitals with oncology departments and radiation therapy facilities. These factors contribute significantly to the overall score.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer. Their ability to recognize symptoms, order appropriate screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and provide timely referrals to specialists is paramount. Assessing primary care availability in Washingtonville involves examining the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the patient-to-physician ratio within primary care, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. Long wait times for appointments and a shortage of PCPs negatively impact the score.

Standout practices in the area, if any, can significantly boost the score. Identifying practices known for their patient-centered care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, or participation in clinical trials is important. These practices often represent centers of excellence, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and a higher standard of care. Publicly available data, patient reviews, and information from professional organizations can help identify such practices.

Technological integration is increasingly important in modern healthcare. Telemedicine adoption, for instance, can improve access to specialists, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Evaluating the availability of telehealth consultations for lung cancer patients, including remote monitoring capabilities and virtual support groups, is a key component of the analysis. Practices that embrace technology to enhance patient care will receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, specifically for cancer patients, is crucial. The presence of these resources contributes significantly to the patient's overall well-being and improves their ability to cope with the disease. The availability of these resources directly impacts the score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" should also consider factors related to health insurance coverage and financial assistance programs. The cost of cancer treatment can be prohibitive, and access to affordable care is a significant concern. Assessing the availability of insurance options, financial assistance programs, and patient navigation services can help patients access the care they need without undue financial burden. This element is an important part of the overall assessment.

Furthermore, the score should reflect the community's health awareness and preventative measures. The prevalence of smoking, a major risk factor for lung cancer, and the implementation of smoking cessation programs within the community are critical considerations. Public health initiatives aimed at promoting early detection, such as lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals, also contribute positively to the score.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for Washingtonville (ZIP code 17884) will be a composite metric, calculated by weighing the factors discussed above. The weighting of each factor should reflect its relative importance in determining the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. For example, the availability of specialists and the ease of access to primary care should carry significant weight.

It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions. A comprehensive assessment would require access to more granular data, including information from individual physician practices and patient surveys. However, this analysis provides a valuable starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the lung cancer care landscape in Washingtonville and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of specialists, hospitals, and support services, consider using interactive mapping tools. These tools can help patients and healthcare providers understand the accessibility of care within the community and identify potential gaps in service.