17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.44 percent of the residents in 17845 has some form of health insurance. 36.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.35 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 17845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 541 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 306 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,940 health care providers accessible to residents in 17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Millmont, PA (ZIP Code 17845)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources within ZIP Code 17845, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering primary care availability in the nearby town of Millmont, PA, and evaluating the overall healthcare ecosystem. This score is not a single number but rather a composite of several interconnected elements.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through screening programs and prompt referrals are critical. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Millmont, and the surrounding areas, directly impacts the likelihood of early detection. This analysis will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, a key indicator of access. A higher ratio (more patients per doctor) can signify longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access and the potential for more proactive patient care.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio requires data from multiple sources. The U.S. Census Bureau, combined with state medical licensing boards and insurance provider networks, can provide a reasonable estimate. This data, however, needs to be interpreted carefully. It's essential to factor in the age distribution of the population, as older demographics generally require more frequent healthcare visits. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable geographic radius is crucial. While this analysis focuses on primary care availability, the proximity of specialists is a significant determinant of the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Standout primary care practices within and around ZIP Code 17845 will be identified based on several criteria. These criteria include: patient reviews, the availability of comprehensive services (including preventative care and chronic disease management), and the adoption of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhere to established guidelines, and have a strong referral network to specialists will be considered favorably. The presence of dedicated care coordinators, who can guide patients through the often-complex healthcare system, is another positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time and offering virtual consultations. Practices that offer telemedicine options for routine checkups, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations will receive a higher score. The integration of telehealth into the practice's workflow, including the use of electronic health records and secure communication platforms, is also a key consideration. This is particularly relevant for patients living in more remote areas within the ZIP code, or those with mobility issues.

Beyond medical treatment, mental health resources are essential for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This analysis will assess the availability of these resources within the community, including the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks. Partnerships with local mental health organizations and support groups will be viewed positively.

The Lung Cancer Score will also consider the availability of patient education and support programs. These programs can provide valuable information about lung cancer, treatment options, and coping strategies. Access to support groups, where patients can connect with others who are facing similar challenges, is particularly beneficial. The presence of patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is another positive factor. These navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing financial assistance programs.

The overall healthcare infrastructure within ZIP Code 17845, including the availability of hospitals and specialized cancer centers, will also influence the Lung Cancer Score. The proximity of a hospital with a dedicated oncology department and access to advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, is crucial. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities can also be a significant advantage for patients. The quality of the hospital's lung cancer program, as measured by metrics such as patient outcomes and survival rates, will be considered.

Finally, the score will incorporate data on socioeconomic factors, such as income levels and insurance coverage rates, as these factors can significantly impact access to healthcare. Areas with higher rates of poverty and lower insurance coverage may experience greater barriers to care, which can negatively affect the Lung Cancer Score. This analysis will attempt to account for these disparities and highlight any initiatives that are in place to address them.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 17845, taking into consideration primary care availability in Millmont, is a multifaceted assessment. It is not a simple ranking, but rather a holistic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem. The score reflects the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of patient support programs, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area, and to identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance lung cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Millmont, PA, and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialists, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, offering a dynamic and interactive way to understand healthcare access and resources.