20011, Washington, District of Columbia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20011, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.73 percent of the residents in 20011 has some form of health insurance. 41.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.73 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 20011 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15,349 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20011. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 9,162 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,453 health care providers accessible to residents in 20011, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 20011 and Primary Care in Washington, D.C.

Analyzing lung cancer care within ZIP code 20011 and the broader primary care landscape of Washington, D.C., requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will attempt to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment by considering various factors, from physician availability to mental health support, ultimately painting a picture of accessibility and quality of care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Washington, D.C., the overall primary care availability is a complex issue. While the city boasts a significant number of healthcare professionals, distribution is uneven. ZIP code 20011, encompassing neighborhoods like Petworth and Brightwood, may experience challenges due to the density of its population and the potential for disparities in access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This directly impacts the prognosis of lung cancer, where early detection is paramount.

Standout primary care practices within the 20011 ZIP code and the broader Washington, D.C. area are those that prioritize comprehensive care. This includes not only routine check-ups and management of chronic conditions but also proactive screening for lung cancer, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history). Practices that actively implement smoking cessation programs and offer education on lung cancer prevention and early detection are crucial. Furthermore, practices with integrated electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists) contribute to a more coordinated and efficient patient journey.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The rise of telehealth has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists regardless of geographic constraints. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and even initial consultations, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be particularly valuable for providing support and monitoring during treatment and recovery.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a vital role in lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Addressing the psychological and emotional needs of patients is essential for improving their overall well-being and adherence to treatment plans. The availability of these resources directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Specific practices within 20011 and the surrounding areas should be assessed based on their adherence to these principles. For example, practices that have a dedicated lung cancer screening program, offer smoking cessation support, and actively utilize telemedicine would score higher. Practices that have strong referral networks to pulmonologists and oncologists, and integrate mental health services would also receive higher scores. The quality of patient communication, the availability of educational materials, and the overall patient experience are also crucial considerations.

Analyzing the availability of specialists is equally important. The presence of pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. The density of these specialists within the 20011 ZIP code and the broader D.C. area should be evaluated. The number of specialists per capita, the wait times for appointments, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options (such as advanced imaging, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy) are all factors that contribute to the Lung Cancer Score. The proximity to major hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers is also a significant advantage.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single number but a composite assessment. It reflects the complex interplay of factors that influence the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. It takes into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialists, and the overall patient experience. The score would be higher for areas and practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

The overall primary care landscape in Washington, D.C., presents a mixed picture. While the city has a robust healthcare infrastructure, disparities in access and the uneven distribution of resources can pose challenges. The Lung Cancer Score for 20011 and other areas of D.C. will vary depending on the specific characteristics of each neighborhood. The practices that prioritize preventative care, embrace technology, and integrate mental health services are best positioned to provide the highest quality of care.

For a comprehensive, geographically-driven analysis of physician availability, specialist locations, and healthcare resource distribution within ZIP code 20011 and the wider Washington, D.C. area, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides detailed visualizations and insights that can help you understand the complex healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.