17853, Mount Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17853, Mount Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.50 percent of the residents in 17853 has some form of health insurance. 22.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.83 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 17853 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 861 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 430 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,168 health care providers accessible to residents in 17853, Mount Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (ZIP Code 17853)

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare resources within Mount Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17853), is crucial for understanding the community's preparedness in addressing a serious health concern like lung cancer. This analysis will delve into the landscape of primary care, focusing on factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, ultimately providing a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of co-morbidities are all vital roles primary care physicians (PCPs) play. The physician-to-patient ratio within Mount Pleasant Mills and the surrounding areas is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside information gleaned from healthcare directories, can help determine this ratio. This data, however, needs to be interpreted cautiously, as it often represents broader county-level figures rather than hyper-local ZIP code specifics.

The availability of primary care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. The geographical distribution of practices is equally important. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Mount Pleasant Mills underserved? Accessibility, considering factors like transportation options, especially for elderly or disabled patients, becomes paramount. A high 'Lung Cancer Score' would reflect a geographically dispersed network of primary care practices, offering convenient access to care for all residents.

Beyond access, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Do they offer comprehensive services, including preventive screenings like those recommended for lung cancer? Are they equipped with the necessary technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), to facilitate seamless communication and coordination of care? Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education would score higher. The presence of certified tobacco cessation programs within these practices is another significant factor, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, utilizing secure platforms and offering flexible appointment options, would be viewed favorably. This is particularly relevant in the context of lung cancer, where regular monitoring and follow-up are essential.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' must also factor in the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care network or easily accessible through referrals is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, would receive higher marks. The integration of mental health services is a crucial element for comprehensive care.

To assess the specific practices within Mount Pleasant Mills, it's essential to identify standout providers. This involves examining patient reviews, considering practice accreditations, and evaluating their commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize communication, build strong patient-physician relationships, and actively engage in shared decision-making would be considered exemplary. These practices would represent the cornerstones of a strong 'Lung Cancer Score'.

The presence of specialized cancer care facilities in the surrounding areas is also relevant. While Mount Pleasant Mills may not have its own oncology center, the proximity of hospitals and cancer treatment centers in neighboring towns, such as Selinsgrove or Sunbury, is a crucial factor. The ease of access to these facilities, including transportation options and referral pathways, directly impacts the quality of care available to patients. A high 'Lung Cancer Score' would reflect a well-connected network of primary care providers and specialized cancer care facilities.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Mount Pleasant Mills would ultimately be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these various factors. It would be based on a weighted assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, geographical accessibility, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the proximity of specialized cancer care facilities. This score would provide a snapshot of the community's readiness to address lung cancer and highlight areas for improvement.

The analysis would also consider the demographics of the population. The prevalence of smoking, the age distribution of residents, and the socioeconomic factors that may influence access to care are all relevant considerations. Understanding these factors helps to paint a more complete picture of the community's needs and challenges.

In conclusion, a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis for Mount Pleasant Mills (ZIP code 17853) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing the availability, accessibility, and quality of primary care, evaluating the integration of mental health services, and considering the proximity of specialized cancer care facilities. This detailed evaluation provides a valuable assessment of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mount Pleasant Mills, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize this information, providing a deeper understanding of the community's healthcare infrastructure.