17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.59 percent of the residents in 17058 has some form of health insurance. 38.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.99 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 17058 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 376 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17058. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 226 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,347 health care providers accessible to residents in 17058, Mifflin, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Mifflin County, PA (ZIP Code 17058) & Primary Care Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score framework, evaluating primary care physician availability and related resources within Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the ZIP Code 17058 area. This assessment considers factors crucial for early detection and effective management of lung cancer, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support. While a numerical score cannot be definitively assigned without proprietary data, this analysis provides a qualitative overview.

Mifflin County, a predominantly rural area, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational element. A healthy physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and a potential delay in diagnosis. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Within the 17058 ZIP code, the ratio must be assessed. Are there enough primary care physicians to adequately serve the local population? County-level data, while useful, can mask disparities within specific communities.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of patient care. These include practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, including regular screenings for lung cancer, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history). The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between providers, enabling better coordination of care and improved tracking of patient health histories. Furthermore, practices that offer patient education programs regarding smoking cessation and healthy lifestyle choices contribute significantly to reducing lung cancer risk. Identifying these practices within 17058 requires detailed research, including patient reviews, practice profiles, and potentially, interviews with healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Mifflin County. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in 17058 involves determining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and secure communication platforms. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and improved accessibility.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are vitally important. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide specialized care. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources within 17058 involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

Specific practices within 17058 need individual evaluation. Are there practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs? Do they offer lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for eligible patients? Do they have dedicated care coordinators who help patients navigate the healthcare system? The answers to these questions will significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score for the area. The availability of specialized pulmonary care within a reasonable distance is also essential. Easy access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Mifflin County, specifically within 17058, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare landscape and to highlight areas where improvements are needed to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care.

The assessment must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of risk factors, such as smoking, will influence the demand for lung cancer screening and treatment services. Understanding these factors is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

In conclusion, improving the Lung Cancer Score for 17058 requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. This includes efforts to increase the number of primary care physicians, improve the quality of care, expand access to telemedicine, and ensure that mental health resources are readily available. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and to identify areas where further improvements are needed.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mifflin County, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist offices, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.