17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.74 percent of the residents in 17065 has some form of health insurance. 34.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.19 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 17065 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 574 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 116 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17065. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,644 health care providers accessible to residents in 17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17065 & Primary Care Availability in Mount Holly Springs

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, specifically concerning lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 17065 (Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania) requires a nuanced understanding of several factors. This analysis aims to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score,' an assessment of the overall quality and accessibility of care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing residents about their options and needs.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, when combined with information from medical directories and insurance provider networks, allows for a preliminary assessment of this ratio. In ZIP code 17065, the ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and, more specifically, pulmonologists and oncologists, is crucial. A scarcity of specialists, especially those directly involved in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, can necessitate travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Harrisburg, potentially creating logistical and financial burdens for patients.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence, evidenced by accreditations, patient satisfaction scores, and the adoption of innovative approaches. A practice specializing in early detection, for example, using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, would be highly valuable. Similarly, a practice that integrates a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, would significantly improve the quality of care. Researching patient reviews, examining the qualifications of the physicians, and investigating the practice's affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers are all vital steps in identifying these standout providers.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations regarding treatment plans, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically located in Mount Holly Springs. Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is essential for understanding the accessibility of care. This includes assessing the availability of remote monitoring technologies for patients undergoing treatment.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is profoundly important for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources, including the ease of access and the types of services offered, is a crucial component of the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

The presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations within the community is also valuable. These groups provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community for patients and their families. Investigating the availability of these resources, including their frequency of meetings, the topics covered, and the qualifications of the facilitators, can provide a deeper understanding of the overall support system available to patients.

Furthermore, the accessibility of diagnostic tools, such as imaging centers, is vital. The proximity of these facilities to primary care practices and specialist offices can significantly impact the speed of diagnosis. Analyzing the location and operating hours of these facilities, as well as their ability to perform advanced imaging techniques, is crucial.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolution of healthcare practices necessitate ongoing evaluation. This analysis should be viewed as a starting point, encouraging further investigation and engagement with the healthcare system.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems are also important factors. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing between providers, can improve the coordination of care and reduce the risk of medical errors.

Another key factor is the affordability of care. Investigating the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing are all crucial considerations.

The integration of palliative care services is also essential. Palliative care focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. For lung cancer patients, palliative care can significantly improve their quality of life. Assessing the availability of palliative care services, including the types of services offered and the qualifications of the providers, is an important component of the 'Lung Cancer Score'.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP code 17065 and the surrounding area is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of diagnostic tools and support services. This analysis emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, prioritizing not only medical treatment but also the emotional and social well-being of patients.

To delve deeper into the healthcare landscape of Mount Holly Springs and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options.