17101, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17101, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.79 percent of the residents in 17101 has some form of health insurance. 33.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.71 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 17101 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 152 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 61 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17101. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 366 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,672 health care providers accessible to residents in 17101, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Harrisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17101)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's 17101 ZIP code. The evaluation focuses on factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and patient support, specifically considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This information aims to inform residents and healthcare providers alike, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement in lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Harrisburg (17101), the availability of PCPs is a critical determinant. This analysis considers the number of practicing PCPs within the specified geographic area, factoring in their specialization (e.g., internal medicine, family practice). A higher concentration of PCPs, coupled with a diverse range of specializations, generally indicates better access to initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing care coordination. The proximity of these PCPs to residential areas is also a key consideration, as ease of access promotes regular check-ups and early detection.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a quantitative measure of access. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) typically suggests that PCPs have more time to dedicate to each patient, allowing for more comprehensive examinations, detailed discussions about risk factors, and proactive screening recommendations. The analysis will examine the physician-to-patient ratio within 17101, comparing it to regional and national averages. Significant deviations from these benchmarks may indicate areas where patient access to primary care is strained, potentially impacting the timely detection of lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer prevention and early detection. The analysis will look for practices that actively implement evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk. This includes the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients. Furthermore, practices that actively track patient outcomes, participate in quality improvement initiatives, and offer comprehensive patient education programs will be considered favorably.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly for individuals in underserved areas or those facing mobility challenges. The analysis assesses the extent to which PCPs in 17101 utilize telemedicine platforms for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and potentially increase patient adherence to treatment plans, all of which are crucial for effective lung cancer management. The availability of virtual consultations for discussing screening results, treatment options, and mental health concerns is particularly important.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or related fields. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer integrated mental health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

The assessment will also consider the presence of multidisciplinary teams within the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes the collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Coordinated care ensures that patients receive comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support throughout their cancer journey. The analysis will assess the efficiency of referral pathways and the level of communication among healthcare providers within the 17101 area.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another important factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for preventing the disease and improving patient outcomes. The analysis will evaluate the availability of smoking cessation resources, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and medication assistance, within the primary care setting and the broader community. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation and provide comprehensive support for smokers will be recognized.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education materials and resources. Patients who are well-informed about lung cancer risks, screening options, treatment modalities, and support services are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health. The analysis will assess the availability of educational materials in multiple languages, tailored to different literacy levels, and accessible through various channels, including online platforms and printed brochures.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Harrisburg (17101) will reflect the combined impact of these factors. A higher score will indicate a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive lung cancer care, from prevention and early detection to treatment and survivorship support. A lower score will highlight areas where improvements are needed to enhance patient outcomes and reduce the burden of lung cancer in the community. This score is a dynamic measure, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify emerging challenges.

This analysis is a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. For the most up-to-date information on the location of these doctors and practices, and to view the data visually, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps.