17844, Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17844, Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.43 percent of the residents in 17844 has some form of health insurance. 32.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.08 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 17844 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,648 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17844. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,769 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,349 health care providers accessible to residents in 17844, Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mifflinburg, PA (ZIP Code 17844)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources in Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17844), with a specific focus on factors relevant to early lung cancer detection and management. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating the local healthcare landscape through the lens of accessibility, quality of care, and supportive resources, thereby indirectly influencing the potential for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is crucial for improving survival rates. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) who are knowledgeable about lung cancer screening guidelines and willing to advocate for their patients is paramount.

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

Mifflinburg, like many rural communities, likely faces challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios. National averages often don't reflect the reality on the ground. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, decreased access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is a critical factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Research into the specific ratio for Mifflinburg is essential. Data from sources like the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be vital in establishing a baseline. The analysis must consider the potential impact of this ratio on timely access to care, especially for individuals at high risk for lung cancer (e.g., smokers, former smokers, those with a family history).

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout primary care practices in Mifflinburg is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas. Are there any practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients? Do they have a robust system for patient outreach and education regarding smoking cessation? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient risk factors and manage preventative care? Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to preventative care and patient education would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of specialized services within these practices, such as respiratory therapists or smoking cessation counselors.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas, to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Mifflinburg is a key indicator. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups, medication management, or preliminary assessments? Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, for consultations and second opinions, further improving the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis should investigate the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The Lung Cancer Score should assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care practices or in the Mifflinburg community. Do practices have established referral pathways for patients needing mental health support? Are there support groups available for lung cancer patients and their families? Addressing the psychological impact of the disease is essential for improving patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans. The analysis should explore the availability of these resources and their integration into the overall care model.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer:**

Beyond general primary care considerations, the analysis must delve into specifics relevant to lung cancer. Does the practice have a clear protocol for referring patients for LDCT screening based on established guidelines (e.g., those from the US Preventive Services Task Force)? Are physicians knowledgeable about the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy? Does the practice collaborate effectively with specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, to provide coordinated care? The analysis should assess the practice's awareness of and adherence to these guidelines and best practices.

**Smoking Cessation Programs:**

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. The availability and effectiveness of smoking cessation programs are crucial for reducing lung cancer risk. The Lung Cancer Score should assess the availability of these programs within the primary care practices or in the Mifflinburg community. Are there evidence-based smoking cessation programs offered? Do practices provide counseling, medication, and other support services to help patients quit smoking? The analysis should evaluate the accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness of these programs.

**Overall Assessment and the Lung Cancer Score:**

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the various factors discussed. The score should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and specific considerations related to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This score, however, is not a definitive assessment of individual risk or the quality of care for any given patient. It is an overview of the healthcare landscape in Mifflinburg, providing insights into the potential for early detection and management of lung cancer.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Mifflinburg, PA (ZIP Code 17844) is essential for addressing the challenges of lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score framework offers a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility, quality, and supportive resources available to patients. This analysis underscores the importance of proactive primary care, early detection through screening, and comprehensive support for individuals affected by this disease.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Mifflinburg and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in your community.