20002, Washington, District of Columbia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20002, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.15 percent of the residents in 20002 has some form of health insurance. 29.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.00 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 20002 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,930 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 133 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20002. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,335 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,104 health care providers accessible to residents in 20002, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Lung Cancer Score: Analyzing Primary Care in Washington, D.C. (ZIP Code 20002)

The diagnosis and effective treatment of lung cancer are critically dependent on early detection and access to quality primary care. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Washington, D.C., specifically within the 20002 ZIP code, and assesses the broader primary care landscape in the District. This examination aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating factors crucial for lung cancer prevention, screening, and management.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with a strong primary care network. PCPs are the first point of contact, responsible for patient education, risk assessment, and the initiation of screening protocols. The 20002 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Capitol Hill and portions of the H Street corridor, presents a unique demographic profile. This includes a mix of established residents, young professionals, and a significant population of individuals with varying socioeconomic backgrounds. Understanding the accessibility of PCPs within this diverse community is paramount.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. While national averages provide a general benchmark, localized data is essential. Analyzing the ratio of PCPs to the population within 20002 offers insight into potential access challenges. A lower ratio could indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early interventions. Data from the District of Columbia Department of Health and other relevant sources must be examined to ascertain the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code and compare it to the citywide and national averages.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is crucial. Several practices within and near 20002 are likely to be recognized for their commitment to patient care. These "standout practices" may be identified through patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and their adoption of best practices in preventive care. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer comprehensive health screenings, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management are likely to be highly regarded. Identifying these practices and understanding their capacity to accept new patients is critical.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing primary care accessibility. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited physical access to clinics. Examining the extent to which PCPs in 20002 offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and prescription refills, is vital. Practices that embrace telehealth are likely to be more accessible and convenient for patients, potentially leading to earlier detection of lung cancer risks.

The link between mental health and lung cancer is increasingly recognized. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can impact a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans and manage their overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices in 20002 is essential. Do practices offer on-site mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Integrated care models, where mental health services are seamlessly integrated into primary care, are often associated with improved patient outcomes.

The broader primary care landscape in Washington, D.C., impacts the 20002 ZIP code. The District's overall healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of specialists, diagnostic imaging centers, and hospitals, plays a significant role in the continuum of care for lung cancer patients. Analyzing the density of pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists within the District, as well as the proximity of these specialists to 20002, is crucial. Easy access to these specialists ensures timely referrals and specialized care for patients diagnosed with lung cancer.

Furthermore, the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for lung cancer screening, is critical. Assessing the number of imaging centers offering LDCT scans within and near 20002, as well as the insurance coverage and accessibility of these services, is vital. Early detection through screening is a cornerstone of lung cancer prevention, and easy access to these diagnostic tools can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Another factor to consider is the availability of community resources. Smoking cessation programs, support groups for cancer patients, and educational materials about lung cancer are all essential. Primary care practices should ideally partner with community organizations to provide these resources. Assessing the availability of these resources within 20002 and the degree to which PCPs actively promote them is another component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

The socioeconomic factors within 20002 also influence primary care access. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and transportation options all play a role. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer sliding-scale fees, and are accessible by public transportation are more likely to serve a diverse population. Understanding the socioeconomic profile of the community and how it affects access to care is essential for a comprehensive analysis.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for the 20002 ZIP code and the broader primary care landscape in Washington, D.C., is a multifaceted assessment. It encompasses physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialists and diagnostic imaging, community resources, and socioeconomic factors. This analysis is a starting point, and further investigation is needed to provide a detailed and accurate assessment.

To visualize the primary care landscape in 20002 and throughout Washington, D.C., and to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.