17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.87 percent of the residents in 17847 has some form of health insurance. 34.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.72 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 17847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,409 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,355 health care providers accessible to residents in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17847)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP Code 17847 (Milton, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and overall primary care availability. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive and effective care. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Milton, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Milton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating a greater availability of physicians, generally facilitates more proactive and timely care. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, can be used to calculate this ratio and understand the pressure on existing primary care resources.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is essential. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments, and the use of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that utilize EHRs often demonstrate better coordination of care and improved communication with specialists, which is particularly important in the complex management of lung cancer. Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and early detection is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to providing high-quality care. Practices that actively screen high-risk patients, such as smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer, are likely to contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Milton. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. The extent to which primary care practices in Milton have embraced telemedicine is a significant factor in this Lung Cancer Score analysis. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are considered to be better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care. The availability of reliable internet access within the community also impacts the feasibility of telemedicine services.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is a key element of the analysis. Primary care practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models, either through on-site providers or referrals to external specialists, are better equipped to support patients facing the challenges of lung cancer. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and access to palliative care are also important considerations.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 17847 need to be evaluated. This involves identifying the major primary care providers and assessing their strengths and weaknesses. This assessment should include factors like the number of physicians, the range of services offered, patient reviews, and accreditation status. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can provide valuable insights into practice performance and patient satisfaction. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within the Milton area or in nearby communities is also a factor. Easy access to these specialists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

The analysis would consider the presence of community resources that support lung cancer patients. This includes organizations that offer financial assistance, transportation services, and educational programs. The level of community awareness about lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment is also an important factor. Public health initiatives, such as smoking cessation programs and campaigns promoting early detection, can significantly impact the overall health of the community. The analysis would consider the availability and effectiveness of these programs in Milton.

Overall, the Lung Cancer Score analysis for Milton, PA, would be a composite of these factors. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in providing effective lung cancer care. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of care within the community. This score would not only be a numerical rating but also a narrative description that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Milton. This narrative would offer actionable recommendations for improving the quality of care and addressing any identified gaps.

The analysis would also consider the challenges faced by the healthcare system in Milton. These challenges might include limited resources, geographic isolation, and socioeconomic disparities. The analysis would identify strategies to address these challenges and ensure that all residents have access to high-quality lung cancer care, regardless of their circumstances. This could involve advocating for increased funding for healthcare services, promoting collaboration among healthcare providers, and implementing targeted interventions to address health disparities.

In conclusion, this Lung Cancer Score analysis for Milton, PA, provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this analysis aims to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members about the current state of care in Milton and to provide actionable recommendations for improvement.

For a visual representation of Milton's healthcare landscape, including physician locations, demographics, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome.