17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.16 percent of the residents in 17035 has some form of health insurance. 56.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.65 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 17035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,583 health care providers accessible to residents in 17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17035 and Primary Care Availability in Honey Grove**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Honey Grove, Pennsylvania, and assesses the overall healthcare landscape for lung cancer care within ZIP Code 17035 (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania). The evaluation considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive cancer care ecosystem.

Honey Grove, a small community, likely experiences challenges regarding primary care access. Rural areas often face shortages of PCPs, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, signifies a greater strain on existing resources. Investigating this ratio for Honey Grove requires accessing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to determine the severity of the access issue.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another essential aspect. Patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer require timely access to these specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. In Honey Grove, the proximity to larger medical centers like those in Harrisburg becomes crucial. The ease of travel and the efficiency of referral networks significantly impact the quality of care.

ZIP Code 17035, encompassing a portion of Harrisburg, presents a different scenario. While a larger population generally translates to a greater concentration of healthcare providers, variations exist within the ZIP code itself. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio within 17035 is vital. This would involve accessing data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or other healthcare databases to ascertain the number of PCPs and specialists practicing within the area.

Identifying "standout practices" in 17035 requires examining factors beyond just the number of physicians. This includes evaluating the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the use of evidence-based practices. Practices with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as low-dose CT scanning for lung cancer screening, and those offering comprehensive treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, would be considered higher-performing. Furthermore, practices that participate in clinical trials and offer access to cutting-edge therapies would be highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the context of cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It also facilitates remote monitoring of patients, allowing for early detection of complications and improved management of side effects. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 17035 involves researching the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring systems, and online patient portals.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for providing comprehensive support to patients. Assessing the availability of these resources in 17035 involves examining the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within the area. It also includes evaluating the integration of mental health services into cancer care practices.

For Honey Grove, the availability of mental health resources may be even more limited. This underscores the importance of telehealth options and referral networks to connect patients with mental health professionals located in larger medical centers.

The assessment of lung cancer care also considers the availability of patient education and support programs. These programs provide patients with information about their disease, treatment options, and coping strategies. They also offer opportunities for patients to connect with each other and share their experiences. The presence of support groups, educational workshops, and patient navigators within practices in 17035 and accessible to Honey Grove residents would be a positive indicator of quality care.

The evaluation also considers the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. This includes managing pain, providing emotional support, and assisting with advance care planning. The presence of palliative care specialists and services within practices in 17035 is a crucial indicator of comprehensive cancer care.

Finally, the analysis considers the availability of financial assistance programs. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients struggle to afford the costs of care. The presence of financial counselors and programs that help patients access financial assistance is an important aspect of ensuring equitable access to care.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in both Honey Grove and ZIP Code 17035 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of patient support programs. The availability of these resources determines the quality of care available to patients.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in these areas and gain deeper insights into physician locations, access to specialists, and the distribution of healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping solutions offer a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying areas where improvements are needed.