18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.98 percent of the residents in 18239 has some form of health insurance. 77.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 18239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18239. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,609 health care providers accessible to residents in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania.

The task requires a detailed analysis of lung cancer care within the specified geographic parameters. It necessitates a deep dive into the availability and quality of care, focusing on physician resources, innovative practices, and support systems. The analysis will culminate in a call to action, directing the user to a mapping tool.

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care in ZIP Code 18239 (Milnesville, Pennsylvania) requires a multi-faceted approach. This assessment moves beyond simple counts of physicians and delves into the complexities of access, quality, and supportive resources. The primary goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the care available to residents, particularly those facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis.

The first critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons) practicing within or serving ZIP Code 18239 is paramount. This requires data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and potentially local hospital systems. The ratio of physicians to the population of Milnesville (and the surrounding area) dictates the potential for timely access to care. A low ratio may indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater availability, but the quality of care needs further investigation.

Beyond simple numbers, the expertise of available specialists is crucial. Are there board-certified oncologists and pulmonologists? Do they specialize in lung cancer treatment? Do they have experience with the latest treatment modalities, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy? The presence of a thoracic surgeon is also vital, as surgical intervention is often a key component of lung cancer treatment. This necessitates researching physician credentials, affiliations with hospitals, and any published research or specializations.

The availability of diagnostic and treatment facilities is another key consideration. Are there hospitals or clinics within a reasonable driving distance that offer CT scans, PET scans, and other diagnostic tools necessary for lung cancer detection and staging? Does the area have access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy? Proximity to these facilities directly impacts the patient's experience, reducing travel burden and potentially improving outcomes. Furthermore, the presence of clinical trials in the area is a positive indicator, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments.

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating the quality of care offered. This involves looking at patient outcomes, such as survival rates and remission rates. Publicly available data, such as hospital report cards or quality metrics from organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), can provide valuable insights. Furthermore, patient reviews and testimonials can offer a glimpse into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. These practices should be highlighted, providing a benchmark for other providers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Does the area have practices that offer telehealth consultations? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from medical centers or have mobility issues. It can also facilitate remote monitoring and follow-up care. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the patient experience.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology is essential. Does the area have support groups for lung cancer patients and their families? These resources provide emotional support, coping strategies, and a sense of community. The integration of mental health services is a crucial indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Primary care availability in Milnesville is a crucial factor. The PCP often serves as the patient's first point of contact and plays a vital role in early detection and referral. The number of PCPs practicing in the area, their accessibility, and their willingness to screen for lung cancer are all important considerations. Are they up-to-date on the latest screening guidelines? Do they have a good working relationship with specialists? The quality of primary care directly impacts the likelihood of early diagnosis and successful treatment.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may affect access to care. Are there any barriers to care, such as lack of insurance or transportation challenges? Are there resources available to help patients navigate these challenges? Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the landscape of lung cancer care in Milnesville requires a comprehensive analysis of physician resources, treatment facilities, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This assessment must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the expertise of specialists, and the availability of diagnostic and treatment modalities. The evaluation should identify standout practices and assess the integration of mental health resources. The availability and quality of primary care are also crucial. Understanding the socioeconomic factors that affect access to care is essential.

To visualize the geographic distribution of these resources and gain a deeper understanding of the care landscape in Milnesville, explore the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps can provide interactive visualizations of physician locations, facility locations, and other relevant data. This allows for a more comprehensive and intuitive understanding of the availability and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a visual perspective.