17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.31 percent of the residents in 17061 has some form of health insurance. 38.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.75 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 17061 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,683 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 95 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17061. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,375 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 17061, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability in Millersburg and related factors. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This evaluation is not a definitive ranking but rather a snapshot of the current state, highlighting areas of strength and potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Millersburg's primary care availability is crucial, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Assessing this availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise, real-time data on physician-to-patient ratios is dynamic and can fluctuate, publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates based on geographic areas. It is imperative to investigate the current ratio and compare it to state and national averages to determine if Millersburg faces a shortage of PCPs.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is important. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more rural or underserved pockets of Millersburg? The geographic distribution of practices should be considered. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices is a vital factor. Practices with closed panels or limited availability can significantly impact access to care.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 17061, or those serving its residents, warrant specific attention. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas. They might have a strong track record of early cancer detection through proactive screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide comprehensive information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options can also be considered exemplary.

Another key differentiator is the integration of evidence-based guidelines into clinical practice. Practices that adhere to established protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible outcomes for their patients. These guidelines, developed by organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the American Cancer Society (ACS), are regularly updated based on the latest research.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can enhance access to care by offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic symptoms, providing emotional support, and coordinating care with specialists. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering a range of virtual services, are likely to provide a more accessible and convenient experience for patients.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is critical. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources, such as on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and support groups, is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and actively integrate these resources into their care model are better equipped to support the overall well-being of their patients.

Furthermore, the coordination of care between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is essential. Practices that have established strong referral networks and communication protocols can ensure that patients receive seamless, integrated care. This coordination can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of navigating the healthcare system.

The availability of resources for smoking cessation is another important consideration. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a critical step in preventing and treating the disease. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs, counseling, and medication assistance are actively contributing to improved patient health.

The overall quality of lung cancer care in ZIP Code 17061 is a multifaceted issue. It is influenced by the availability of PCPs, the characteristics of individual practices, the integration of telemedicine, the provision of mental health resources, and the coordination of care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Millersburg is a starting point for assessing access to care, but the quality of care is ultimately determined by a combination of factors.

The evaluation of lung cancer care in ZIP Code 17061 also benefits from considering the broader healthcare ecosystem. The presence of hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics in the surrounding area is important. These facilities can provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. The proximity of these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 17061 requires a comprehensive understanding of the resources available, the quality of care provided, and the challenges faced by patients. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, a more complete picture emerges. Further investigation, including site visits, patient interviews, and a deeper dive into available data, is needed to provide a truly detailed analysis.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Millersburg and surrounding areas, and to explore the factors discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify the location of healthcare providers, assess access to care, and understand the broader healthcare landscape.