18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.64 percent of the residents in 18912 has some form of health insurance. 56.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.74 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 18912 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18912. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,208 health care providers accessible to residents in 18912, Buckingham, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18912 and Primary Care Availability in Buckingham, PA**

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP code 18912 (Buckingham, PA) and assesses factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and overall patient care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. This information is crucial for residents seeking quality healthcare, particularly those at risk for or affected by lung cancer.

Buckingham, Pennsylvania, a community known for its rural charm and suburban amenities, presents a unique healthcare environment. Understanding the accessibility and quality of primary care is paramount, as PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a critical role in screening for lung cancer, providing preventative care, and coordinating specialist referrals.

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

One of the most fundamental aspects of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced patient access, and potentially compromised care. Data on physician density within ZIP code 18912 and the surrounding areas is essential to assess the current state. This analysis would ideally utilize data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) to determine if the area is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). If so, it would indicate a significant shortage of PCPs.

Further, the availability of appointments, both for routine check-ups and for follow-up care after a potential lung cancer diagnosis, is critical. This involves evaluating the average wait times for appointments with PCPs in the area. A longer wait time can delay diagnosis and treatment, especially in a disease like lung cancer where early detection is crucial.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key factors. First, the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), is crucial. This includes offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals (e.g., those with a significant smoking history).

Second, the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to facilitate care coordination are important. EHRs streamline communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers, ensuring that patient information is readily available and that care is coordinated effectively. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients who often require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Third, patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews provide valuable insights into the patient experience. These reviews can highlight practices known for their compassionate care, clear communication, and efficient service.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in ZIP code 18912 is crucial for several reasons. First, telemedicine can reduce geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with their PCPs remotely, potentially for follow-up appointments or for initial consultations.

Second, telemedicine can improve access to specialists. Patients with suspected lung cancer may require consultations with pulmonologists or oncologists. Telemedicine can facilitate these consultations, reducing the need for travel and improving the timeliness of care.

Third, telemedicine can be used for remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is often associated with lung cancer. This can help prevent exacerbations and improve overall health outcomes. The analysis would need to evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption, the types of services offered, and the patient experience with these services.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care**

The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues are common among cancer patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is crucial.

The analysis would need to assess the extent to which PCPs in ZIP code 18912 integrate mental health services into their practice. This could include having on-site mental health professionals, offering referrals to mental health specialists, or using screening tools to identify patients who may benefit from mental health support.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of support groups and other resources for lung cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in ZIP code 18912 and Buckingham, PA, requires a multi-faceted approach to assess its readiness for lung cancer prevention and care. This analysis highlights the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

While this analysis provides a general overview, a more in-depth assessment would require access to specific data on physician density, appointment wait times, practice performance metrics, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services. This information is essential for residents seeking quality healthcare and for healthcare providers striving to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.