17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.02 percent of the residents in 17112 has some form of health insurance. 29.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.63 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 17112 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,703 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17112. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,884 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,344 health care providers accessible to residents in 17112, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Harrisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17112) - A Deep Dive

This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on the landscape of lung cancer care within Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's 17112 ZIP code, focusing on primary care access, physician quality, and the availability of supportive resources. The goal is to assess the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient well-being. This analysis does not offer medical advice, but aims to provide a framework for understanding the local resources available.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. They play a crucial role in screening, risk assessment, and timely referrals to specialists. In Harrisburg's 17112, the availability of PCPs significantly impacts the potential for early detection. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to estimate these ratios. The analysis would involve cross-referencing population data with the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This involves evaluating the PCPs' familiarity with current lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers). This includes assessing their willingness to order low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening tool for eligible individuals. Furthermore, the analysis would consider the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) within primary care practices. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve care coordination, and allow for efficient tracking of patient data, including screening history and risk factors.

Identifying standout primary care practices is crucial. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to preventive care, including proactive screening programs and patient education. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication effectiveness, and overall satisfaction. Additionally, the analysis would investigate whether these practices actively participate in quality improvement initiatives related to cancer screening and management.

The availability of specialist care is another critical factor. This includes access to pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The analysis would examine the concentration of these specialists within the 17112 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This involves assessing the number of specialists, their board certifications, and their affiliations with local hospitals. Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, which offer multidisciplinary care and access to clinical trials, is also a significant consideration. The analysis would assess the distance to such centers and the ease of access for patients in the 17112 area.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to enhance access to care, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis would investigate the extent to which specialists in the area offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments, consultations, and even initial assessments. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their healthcare providers. The analysis would consider the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video conferencing, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis can be profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The analysis would investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology. This includes assessing the number of such professionals in the area, their affiliations with cancer centers or hospitals, and their acceptance of insurance. Support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning. The analysis would identify the availability of such groups in the 17112 area and their accessibility to patients.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of other supportive services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and social workers, who can provide assistance with financial and social challenges. Access to palliative care services, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, is also essential.

The analysis would incorporate data on the local demographics, including the prevalence of smoking and other risk factors for lung cancer. This information is crucial for understanding the specific needs of the population and for targeting screening and prevention efforts effectively. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can be used to assess these factors.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Harrisburg's 17112 ZIP code would represent a composite assessment of all these factors. It would not be a single numerical score, but rather a comprehensive evaluation that highlights strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing lung cancer care in the community.

This analysis, while providing a framework for understanding the local healthcare landscape, is limited by the availability of public data. A comprehensive assessment would require access to more detailed information from healthcare providers and other sources. The analysis also does not account for individual patient preferences or circumstances.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in Harrisburg, including the locations of PCPs, specialists, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize healthcare data in a geospatial context, providing a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and making informed decisions about your care.