17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.73 percent of the residents in 17062 has some form of health insurance. 30.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.81 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 17062 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,047 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17062. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 702 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,189 health care providers accessible to residents in 17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Millerstown, PA (ZIP Code 17062)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection and treatment within Millerstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17062), with a particular focus on primary care and its impact on early diagnosis. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, and offering insights into the healthcare landscape of this specific community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection, which is heavily reliant on the accessibility and quality of primary care. In Millerstown, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available information suggests a potential challenge. A limited number of PCPs serving the population of Millerstown could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. This is a significant concern because prompt access to a PCP is essential for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk due to smoking history or family history.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" requires looking at the adoption of evidence-based practices. This includes evaluating the practices' adherence to guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria, including age and smoking history. Practices actively promoting and facilitating these screenings will score higher. Investigating the electronic health record (EHR) systems utilized by local practices is also essential. EHRs that support clinical decision-making, including automated reminders for eligible patients and integrated screening protocols, can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of lung cancer detection efforts.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer telehealth consultations can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Millerstown. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and even initial screenings, potentially reducing the need for travel and improving patient convenience. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine for appropriate lung cancer-related care will contribute positively to the "Lung Cancer Score." This includes telehealth options for discussing symptoms, reviewing imaging results, and providing support for smoking cessation.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being and adherence to treatment plans. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the proximity and availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will receive higher scores. This is particularly important for patients struggling with anxiety, depression, or the emotional challenges associated with quitting smoking.

Standout practices within Millerstown, if any, deserve specific recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care, including proactive screening programs, patient education, and strong patient-physician communication, is crucial. These practices might have dedicated staff members focused on cancer care coordination, actively participate in community outreach programs related to lung cancer awareness, or have established partnerships with local hospitals and cancer centers. Identifying these exemplary practices can provide a benchmark for other practices to emulate and improve the overall quality of lung cancer care within the community.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" must account for the availability of smoking cessation resources. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is vital for preventing new cases and improving the prognosis of existing patients. This includes evaluating the availability of nicotine replacement therapies, counseling services, and support groups. Practices that actively promote and facilitate smoking cessation efforts, including offering evidence-based interventions, will significantly contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

The impact of local hospitals and cancer centers on the "Lung Cancer Score" is also significant. The presence of a nearby hospital with a dedicated oncology department, access to advanced diagnostic imaging (such as PET scans), and a multidisciplinary team of specialists (oncologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists) are all crucial for providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The proximity of these resources and the ease of referral pathways from primary care practices to these specialists directly impact the quality of care available to patients in Millerstown.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the demographic characteristics of the population served. Millerstown, like many rural communities, may have a higher proportion of older adults and individuals with a history of smoking. Understanding the specific needs of this population is essential for tailoring healthcare services and ensuring equitable access to care. This includes considering cultural sensitivity, language barriers, and the availability of transportation for patients needing to access specialized care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Millerstown (ZIP code 17062) requires a multi-faceted approach. It goes beyond simply counting doctors and involves evaluating the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the availability of telemedicine and mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized cancer care. This comprehensive analysis provides a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement to enhance lung cancer detection and treatment outcomes within the community.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Millerstown, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and cancer centers, we encourage you to explore the data with **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare providers and identify potential gaps in access to care.