18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.33 percent of the residents in 18434 has some form of health insurance. 46.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.69 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 18434 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 890 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18434. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 652 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Jessup, PA (ZIP Code 18434)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Jessup, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18434), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem to guide patients and inform healthcare providers. The analysis focuses on primary care availability and its impact on early detection and overall patient well-being.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection. This relies heavily on the accessibility and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Jessup, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, recommended for high-risk individuals. A thorough investigation into the current PCP-to-patient ratio in Jessup is essential. This data should be readily available from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, their utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient data management, and their commitment to patient education regarding risk factors like smoking and exposure to environmental hazards. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide comprehensive risk assessments are more likely to identify potential lung cancer cases early.

A key indicator of a practice's commitment to quality is its accreditation status. Accreditation from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission often signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care. Examining the accreditation status of primary care practices in Jessup is crucial for assessing their quality.

The adoption of telemedicine is another significant factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth consultations can facilitate initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telemedicine services within Jessup's primary care practices should be investigated. This includes assessing the types of telehealth services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote patient monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

The impact of mental health on cancer patients cannot be overstated. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The availability of mental health resources within the Jessup healthcare system is therefore a critical component of this analysis. This includes assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the accessibility of support groups and counseling services.

Standout practices in Jessup deserve specific recognition. Identifying primary care practices that excel in lung cancer screening, patient education, and the integration of mental health services can provide valuable insights. This requires a detailed review of individual practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially direct communication with the practices themselves. These standout practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, promoting best practices and improving the overall quality of care.

The effectiveness of lung cancer treatment also relies on access to specialized care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, it's important to consider the availability of oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons in the broader region. The proximity to specialized cancer centers and the ease of referral pathways are crucial factors in ensuring timely and comprehensive care. This includes assessing the travel time to these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process.

The economic factors affecting healthcare access in Jessup also warrant consideration. The affordability of healthcare services, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. This requires an understanding of the insurance landscape in the area, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of various healthcare services.

The role of community resources should not be overlooked. Local support groups, advocacy organizations, and community health initiatives can play a vital role in providing emotional support, education, and practical assistance to lung cancer patients and their families. Identifying and assessing these resources is crucial for creating a comprehensive picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Jessup.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for Jessup, PA (18434) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, assessing the quality of primary care practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. It also requires considering the economic factors affecting healthcare access and the role of community resources. This analysis should be a dynamic process, continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Jessup and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.