15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 15464 has some form of health insurance. 41.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.83 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 15464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 256 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 756 health care providers accessible to residents in 15464, Mill Run, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15464 and Primary Care Availability in Mill Run**

The assessment of healthcare resources within a specific geographic area, particularly concerning a serious disease like lung cancer, demands a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 15464 and the primary care landscape of Mill Run, Pennsylvania, with a view towards understanding the support available for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight noteworthy practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and consider the integration of mental health resources.

ZIP Code 15464, encompassing areas near and around Mill Run, is a rural region. This geographical context immediately suggests potential challenges in accessing healthcare. The density of the population plays a crucial role. A low population density can often translate to a lower concentration of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists critical for lung cancer care. The physician-to-patient ratio, therefore, becomes a key metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, could indicate longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased travel distances for patients.

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 15464 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially local hospital systems. This data would reveal the number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals serving the area. The ratio should be compared to state and national averages to assess the adequacy of the healthcare workforce. A significant disparity could signal a need for initiatives to attract and retain healthcare professionals in the region.

Beyond physician density, the quality and availability of primary care are essential. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Early detection is critical for successful treatment. A PCP's ability to provide thorough examinations, order appropriate screenings (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists promptly can significantly impact outcomes.

The primary care landscape in Mill Run and its surrounding areas needs a detailed examination. This would involve identifying the number of primary care practices, their staffing levels, the types of services offered, and their acceptance of insurance plans. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and potentially, nurse practitioner-led clinics is important. The availability of same-day appointments, extended hours, and weekend services could also be considered.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a review of patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditation status. Practices with a reputation for providing excellent patient care, offering comprehensive services, and demonstrating a commitment to preventive care should be highlighted. Information about the practice's involvement in community outreach programs, such as smoking cessation initiatives, could also be relevant.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be particularly valuable in rural areas like 15464. It can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some types of specialist care. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices would involve determining whether they offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, and access to online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care and enhance patient convenience.

The integration of mental health resources is also critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, fear, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, is essential for promoting patient well-being.

Assessing the mental health resources available in 15464 and Mill Run would involve identifying the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also important. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, should be recognized.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 15464 and Mill Run would be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed. It would reflect the density of healthcare providers, the quality and availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score would be relative to other areas, providing a benchmark for comparison and highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a dynamic measure, subject to change over time. As healthcare resources evolve, the score would need to be updated to reflect the current state of the healthcare landscape. Regular monitoring and analysis are essential to ensure that residents of 15464 and Mill Run have access to the best possible care.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in 15464 and Mill Run, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome.