17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.19 percent of the residents in 17066 has some form of health insurance. 51.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.88 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 17066 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,207 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17066. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,009 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 55 health care providers accessible to residents in 17066, Mount Union, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17066 and Primary Care Availability in Mount Union

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Mount Union, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17066), with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey with a potentially life-threatening illness. This analysis does not constitute medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, highlighting the importance of regular checkups and screenings. In a rural area like Mount Union, geographical limitations and workforce shortages can pose significant challenges to healthcare access. Therefore, this analysis begins with assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, will be utilized to estimate the population within ZIP code 17066. This population figure, coupled with the number of practicing primary care physicians in the area (identified through online directories, insurance provider listings, and local hospital websites), provides the initial physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, signals potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care provided by these physicians is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing and coordinated care? The presence of EHRs is particularly important, as they streamline communication between primary care physicians, specialists (such as pulmonologists and oncologists), and the patient. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray machines or the ability to order and manage lab tests, streamlines the diagnostic process. Practices that offer these services can potentially speed up the process of identifying and treating potential lung cancer cases.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural settings. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can reduce the need for travel, improve access to specialists, and provide ongoing support for patients. The analysis will investigate which primary care practices in Mount Union offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the types of services offered (e.g., virtual checkups, medication management, specialist consultations), the technology used, and the ease of use for patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment, allowing them to connect with their care team remotely, manage side effects, and receive emotional support.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis will investigate whether primary care practices in Mount Union have established partnerships with mental health professionals, either on-site or through referral networks. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups. Integrated mental health services can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. The ability of primary care physicians to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals is also an important consideration.

Identifying standout practices within the Mount Union area is a key aspect of this analysis. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. These practices might have a strong track record of early cancer detection, offer comprehensive services, utilize telemedicine effectively, and prioritize patient communication and education. This evaluation will consider factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status, and participation in quality improvement programs. Practices that actively participate in initiatives to improve cancer screening rates and patient outcomes will be given special consideration.

The accessibility of specialists is another crucial factor. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists in the surrounding areas is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the proximity of these specialists to Mount Union, the ease of referral from primary care physicians, and the wait times for appointments. This includes identifying the hospitals and clinics that offer comprehensive cancer care services, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for patients and their families. This includes information about support groups, financial assistance programs, and educational materials. Primary care practices that provide patients with these resources can help them navigate the complexities of their illness and access the support they need. The presence of patient navigators, who can assist patients with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing resources, is also a significant advantage.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Mount Union (ZIP code 17066) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialist care. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system, ultimately informing patients and providers about the resources available for lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Mount Union and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis.

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