17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.44 percent of the residents in 17236 has some form of health insurance. 33.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.28 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 17236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,682 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17236. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,717 health care providers accessible to residents in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mercersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17236)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support within ZIP Code 17236, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and the broader healthcare ecosystem in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" indirectly, by evaluating factors crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of this disease. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes.

Mercersburg, a small town in Franklin County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area can affect access to specialized care and the adoption of advanced technologies. Therefore, this analysis will delve into the specific characteristics of the local healthcare landscape to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Access:**

A critical factor in lung cancer detection is the accessibility of primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms and play a crucial role in screening and referral. The physician-to-patient ratio in Mercersburg is a key indicator of access. While specific data on the exact ratio within the 17236 ZIP code is difficult to obtain publicly, county-level data and regional trends can offer insights. Franklin County, like many rural areas, may face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians. This can lead to higher patient loads for existing PCPs, potentially impacting the time available for thorough examinations and patient education, both vital in early lung cancer detection.

To improve the "Lung Cancer Score," the availability of PCPs must be addressed. This includes examining the number of active physicians accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with longer wait times, could negatively impact the score, as it may delay diagnosis and treatment.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

The quality of care provided by existing practices is another vital component. Identifying "standout practices" involves assessing factors such as the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and the presence of specialized training among the medical staff. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education, would positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

Researching practices within the 17236 ZIP code, and those readily accessible in the surrounding areas, would reveal the presence of any specific accreditations or recognitions related to cancer care. This could include affiliations with larger healthcare systems or cancer centers, which often provide access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by practices in Mercersburg is a significant factor in the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources. The availability of telemedicine services can mitigate the challenges of geographical distance and limited access to specialized care, which is crucial for lung cancer patients.

Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services provided remotely (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine would contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score."

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore essential. The "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the Mercersburg area.

The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, is another crucial factor. These groups provide patients with a platform to share experiences, receive emotional support, and connect with others facing similar challenges. The availability of these resources, along with the willingness of healthcare providers to address the psychological needs of their patients, would positively influence the score.

**Specific Considerations for Mercersburg:**

Given the rural setting of Mercersburg, the "Lung Cancer Score" must account for specific local factors. This includes the availability of transportation to access healthcare facilities, the presence of community health initiatives focused on cancer awareness and prevention, and the socioeconomic characteristics of the population. Addressing these factors is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents.

The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Programs that offer counseling, medication, and support for quitting smoking would contribute to a higher score.

**Conclusion:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mercersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17236) is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the access to mental health resources are all critical components. Addressing the challenges of rural healthcare, such as limited access to specialists and transportation barriers, is essential for improving outcomes for lung cancer patients in this community.

To further enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mercersburg and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced analysis.