17052, Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17052, Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.93 percent of the residents in 17052 has some form of health insurance. 36.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.13 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 17052 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 326 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17052. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 264 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 59 health care providers accessible to residents in 17052, Mapleton Depot, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17052 and Primary Care Availability in Mapleton Depot**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 17052 (Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania) and the primary care availability in the nearby community of Mapleton Depot, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care and overall health outcomes. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility, quality, and resources available to patients, particularly those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In 17052, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and oncologists directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and follow-up care for lung cancer. A higher ratio of patients per physician can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. The data suggests that the Mechanicsburg area, due to its suburban nature, likely benefits from a more favorable physician-to-patient ratio compared to more rural areas. However, this can fluctuate based on the specific specialty.

Primary care availability in Mapleton Depot, a more rural community, presents a different challenge. Limited access to PCPs in Mapleton Depot necessitates reliance on healthcare services in surrounding areas, including Mechanicsburg. This geographic disparity can create barriers to care, especially for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The distance to specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists in 17052 further compounds these challenges.

**Standout Practices and Centers of Excellence**

Identifying standout practices within 17052 is vital. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and innovative treatment approaches. Evaluating the presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists is a key factor. The availability of state-of-the-art imaging equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening, is also critical. Furthermore, practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists, are highly desirable.

The presence of a comprehensive cancer center or affiliation with a major hospital system in the area can significantly enhance the quality of lung cancer care. These centers often offer clinical trials, cutting-edge treatments, and access to a wider range of specialists. Investigating patient satisfaction scores, outcomes data, and accreditations from reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer, provides valuable insights into the quality of care offered by these practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, particularly for patients in Mapleton Depot. The adoption of telemedicine technologies by practices in 17052 can significantly benefit patients in rural areas. Telemedicine consultations can facilitate remote monitoring, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists without requiring lengthy travel.

Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and even initial consultations demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Furthermore, the integration of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track vital signs or symptoms, can enable proactive care and early intervention.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources and supportive care services is crucial for holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of on-site or referral-based mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups, patient navigators, and palliative care services can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients. Patient navigators can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing resources. Palliative care services focus on managing symptoms, providing comfort, and improving the overall quality of life for patients and their families.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer Care**

Beyond general healthcare assessments, specific considerations for lung cancer care are essential. The availability of lung cancer screening programs, particularly for high-risk individuals, is crucial. Evaluating the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines and the accessibility of low-dose CT scans is important.

Furthermore, assessing the availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, is critical. Practices that participate in clinical trials and offer access to innovative treatments demonstrate a commitment to providing cutting-edge care. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses, is indicative of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to patient care.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in 17052, particularly Mechanicsburg, appears to offer a more favorable environment for lung cancer care compared to the more rural Mapleton Depot. However, disparities in access to care, especially for primary care, remain a challenge. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are crucial factors in determining the quality of care. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of these factors are essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17052 and Mapleton Depot, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping platform allows you to visualize physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant data points, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of healthcare services in the area.