17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.54 percent of the residents in 17213 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 58.93 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 17213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17213. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37 health care providers accessible to residents in 17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17213 and Primary Care in Blairs Mills

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within ZIP code 17213 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) and the primary care landscape of the nearby, more rural area of Blairs Mills. The focus is on factors crucial for lung cancer patients, including access to primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, recognizing that early detection and comprehensive care significantly impact patient outcomes.

The starting point for any assessment of lung cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians. In ZIP code 17213, the presence of a larger population center generally translates to a higher concentration of primary care providers compared to the more sparsely populated Blairs Mills. However, simply counting physicians doesn’t tell the whole story. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A high ratio suggests a potentially overburdened system, leading to longer wait times for appointments and less time for individual patient care. Data on these ratios, ideally obtained from local health authorities or patient advocacy groups, is essential for a complete picture.

In Blairs Mills, primary care availability presents a different challenge. The limited number of physicians likely results in a lower physician-to-patient ratio. This can lead to significant travel distances for routine checkups and specialist referrals. The impact on patients can be substantial, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The reliance on a single primary care physician or a small group of providers underscores the importance of continuity of care and the need for robust communication channels between providers.

Within ZIP code 17213, several practices might stand out in terms of lung cancer care. These could be recognized for their proactive screening programs, utilizing low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. They may also excel in patient education, providing comprehensive information about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. Furthermore, practices with strong referral networks to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons would be highly beneficial. Identifying these standout practices requires careful review of patient reviews, physician directories, and potentially, direct outreach to local healthcare organizations.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility, especially for rural communities like Blairs Mills. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups remotely. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients, who may experience mobility limitations or reside far from specialized care centers. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and particularly a lung cancer diagnosis, can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or access to support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources, especially in the context of the potentially isolated environment of Blairs Mills, is critical for patient well-being and treatment adherence.

In ZIP code 17213, the presence of larger hospitals and medical centers often facilitates access to a wider range of specialists and treatment options. These facilities may have dedicated lung cancer clinics, offering multidisciplinary care involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET scans and advanced biopsy techniques, is also a key indicator of the quality of care. The proximity of these resources to primary care physicians streamlines the referral process and enhances coordination of care.

The assessment of lung cancer care in Blairs Mills must consider the challenges of limited resources. The primary care physician likely serves as the central point of contact, coordinating referrals and providing ongoing support. The availability of mobile medical units or outreach programs that bring specialized services to the community can significantly improve access to care. Collaboration between the primary care physician and specialists in nearby towns or cities is crucial for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

For both ZIP code 17213 and Blairs Mills, the availability of patient navigation services is a significant factor. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, providing support with appointment scheduling, insurance issues, and access to resources. These navigators can be particularly valuable for lung cancer patients, who often face multiple appointments, treatments, and emotional challenges.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for each area would consider all these factors. The score would reflect the accessibility of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of patient navigation services. Each factor would be weighted based on its impact on patient outcomes.

Ultimately, a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care requires detailed data analysis, including information on physician availability, wait times, referral patterns, treatment outcomes, and patient satisfaction. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors and highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to improve access to quality care for all patients.

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