17221, Fannettsburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17221, Fannettsburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.93 percent of the residents in 17221 has some form of health insurance. 28.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.02 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 17221 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 91 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17221. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 96 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,872 health care providers accessible to residents in 17221, Fannettsburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17221 and Primary Care Availability in Fannettsburg

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP Code 17221 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding area, with a specific focus on primary care availability in the nearby community of Fannettsburg. The goal is to assess the quality and availability of care, particularly in the context of early detection, diagnosis, and supportive services for individuals potentially facing lung cancer. This assessment will inform a "Lung Cancer Score" for the region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, hinges on a strong patient-physician relationship and proactive medical management. In Fannettsburg, a predominantly rural area, primary care availability is a crucial factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Investigating the actual ratio in Fannettsburg is a primary step in evaluating the area’s capacity to address lung cancer concerns.

Within ZIP Code 17221, the presence of larger healthcare systems and specialty practices suggests a potentially higher level of access to care. However, even in areas with more resources, disparities can exist. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the distribution of physicians, the availability of specialized pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists, and the overall capacity of the healthcare system to handle a potential surge in lung cancer diagnoses. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within the area would significantly boost the score, offering integrated services like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

A critical component of this analysis is the evaluation of standout practices. These are medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This can include practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, employ advanced diagnostic technologies, offer patient navigation services, and have a proven track record of positive patient outcomes. Identifying these practices is crucial for patients seeking high-quality care. Examining their patient satisfaction scores, the availability of multilingual staff, and their commitment to community outreach are all essential elements in this evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, especially in rural areas like Fannettsburg, can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists, provide remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment, and offer access to educational resources. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the extent to which healthcare providers in the region have embraced telemedicine technologies and the availability of these services to patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting patients with cancer, is critical. The Lung Cancer Score will assess the availability of these resources, including the presence of support groups, access to mental health services within cancer centers, and the integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan.

The analysis will also consider the availability of supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs, palliative care, and financial assistance programs. Smoking cessation programs are essential for preventing lung cancer and supporting patients who are trying to quit. Palliative care services, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, are crucial for patients with advanced lung cancer. Financial assistance programs can help patients with the cost of treatment, medications, and other related expenses.

The Lung Cancer Score will not be a single numerical value but a multifaceted assessment based on the factors discussed above. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in ZIP Code 17221 and the surrounding areas, particularly regarding lung cancer care. The score will be dynamic, reflecting changes in healthcare infrastructure, technological advancements, and the implementation of best practices.

Specifically, the analysis will need to identify the number of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within ZIP Code 17221 and the surrounding counties. It will also need to assess the availability of lung cancer screening programs, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and the presence of comprehensive cancer centers. The analysis will consider the availability of telemedicine services, mental health resources, and supportive services.

Furthermore, the analysis will investigate the reimbursement rates for lung cancer screening and treatment in the area, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients. The goal is to create a complete picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting the resources available to patients and identifying areas where improvements are needed. The data will be gathered from various sources, including public health records, healthcare provider websites, and patient surveys.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score is designed to be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear and concise assessment of the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the region. The score will highlight areas of excellence and identify areas where improvements are needed. It is a dynamic process that will evolve as the healthcare landscape changes.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Chambersburg (17221) and Fannettsburg and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of specialized services, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your health.