17020, Duncannon, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17020, Duncannon, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 17020 has some form of health insurance. 36.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.48 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 17020 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,661 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 47 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17020. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,394 health care providers accessible to residents in 17020, Duncannon, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Duncannon, PA (ZIP Code 17020)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality in Duncannon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17020), necessitates a nuanced understanding of its primary care landscape, particularly concerning lung cancer detection and treatment. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. This score, though not a formal metric, serves as a framework to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to lung cancer care.

Duncannon, a small borough in Perry County, faces the typical challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While specific numbers fluctuate, the ratio is likely lower than the national average. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially dispersed population. This impacts access to routine check-ups, early screenings, and timely referrals, all crucial elements in lung cancer prevention and treatment. A lower ratio translates to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less personalized care, impacting the Lung Cancer Score negatively.

The availability of primary care is directly linked to lung cancer outcomes. Early detection is paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, responsible for identifying risk factors, ordering screenings like low-dose CT scans, and initiating diagnostic processes. The presence of a robust network of PCPs, actively involved in lung cancer screening, directly boosts the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs or a lack of screening initiatives will decrease the score.

Standout practices within Duncannon, or those serving its population, are critical to assess. These practices might have specific initiatives, such as offering smoking cessation programs, implementing patient education campaigns about lung cancer risks, or utilizing advanced diagnostic tools. A practice with a dedicated focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening, would significantly enhance the Lung Cancer Score. Identifying these practices and understanding their operational models is crucial.

Telemedicine is another vital component of modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in educational programs remotely. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within local practices, especially for pulmonology and oncology consultations, improves access to specialized expertise, which is a key factor in lung cancer treatment. Its absence, or limited use, would be a negative indicator.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the overall Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis is emotionally taxing. Patients require support to cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany the disease and its treatment. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is a significant factor. Practices with integrated mental health services, or strong referral networks to mental health professionals, will contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. The lack of these resources would be a significant detriment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Duncannon, PA, would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care network, proactive screening programs, the integration of telemedicine, and readily available mental health support. A low score would reflect the opposite: a shortage of PCPs, limited screening initiatives, a lack of telemedicine, and a scarcity of mental health resources.

To build a more accurate Lung Cancer Score, data from several sources is needed. Public health data, insurance claims, and patient surveys can all be used to evaluate the healthcare landscape in Duncannon.

The lack of a local hospital in Duncannon is a significant factor. This means patients must travel to nearby towns or cities for specialized care, including lung cancer treatment. This travel time can delay diagnosis and treatment, which negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of transportation assistance programs for patients is a mitigating factor.

The presence of community outreach programs, such as those offering free or low-cost screenings, can also improve the Lung Cancer Score. These programs can increase awareness about lung cancer risks and encourage early detection.

The overall quality of the healthcare system in Duncannon, PA, is a complex issue. The Lung Cancer Score is a useful framework to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to lung cancer care. The score is a dynamic measure that can be improved by implementing targeted interventions, such as recruiting more primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing access to mental health services.

The analysis shows that improving access to healthcare, particularly primary care, is essential for improving lung cancer outcomes in Duncannon, PA. This includes increasing the number of primary care physicians, improving access to screening programs, and ensuring that patients have access to the mental health resources they need.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Duncannon and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care providers, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the power of location-based data. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive visual representation of these factors, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare access and resource distribution.