20390, Washington, District of Columbia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 20390, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 20390 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 20390 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20390. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 264 health care providers accessible to residents in 20390, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 20390 & Washington Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 20390, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and overall healthcare resources, while also considering the broader context of primary care access throughout Washington state. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in this critical area of healthcare, ultimately aiming to inform patients and healthcare providers alike. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, all within the framework of lung cancer screening and treatment.

ZIP Code 20390, encompassing a specific geographic area, requires a localized assessment. To accurately evaluate the "Lung Cancer Score," we would ideally need access to granular data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within this ZIP code, the total population residing there, and the demographics of that population (age, socioeconomic status, etc.). Without this precise information, our analysis will be inherently limited, but we can still extrapolate and make informed observations based on available data and general healthcare trends.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to care and a greater likelihood of early detection and intervention for conditions like lung cancer. In the absence of ZIP code-specific data, we can consider the national average and Washington state averages. If the state average is significantly better than the national average, it suggests that, on average, residents of Washington have better access to primary care. The local ratio in 20390 would then ideally be compared to both of these benchmarks.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 20390, or those serving its residents, would be identified based on several criteria. These include: their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs (particularly for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers); their use of evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment; their integration of multidisciplinary care teams (including pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses); and their patient satisfaction scores. Identifying these practices would require a review of patient reviews, healthcare provider directories, and potentially, interviews with local healthcare professionals. The presence of these practices would elevate the "Lung Cancer Score" for the area.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several benefits in the context of lung cancer care. It can improve access to specialists for patients in remote areas, facilitate follow-up appointments, and provide support for patients managing chronic conditions. The extent of telemedicine adoption in 20390, and within the practices serving its residents, is a crucial factor. Assessing this would involve examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the overall technological infrastructure of local healthcare providers. A high level of telemedicine adoption would positively impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they play a vital role in the care of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for supporting patients' emotional well-being and improving their overall quality of life. The "Lung Cancer Score" must account for the integration of mental health services within the primary care setting and the availability of specialized mental health providers who are familiar with the unique challenges faced by cancer patients.

Primary care availability in Washington state is a critical factor in the overall "Lung Cancer Score." Washington has a diverse population, and access to healthcare can vary significantly depending on geographic location, socioeconomic status, and other factors. Assessing primary care availability statewide involves examining physician distribution, the presence of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and other safety-net providers, and the impact of health insurance coverage. The state's commitment to expanding access to primary care, through initiatives such as telehealth programs and loan repayment programs for physicians practicing in underserved areas, would positively impact the "Lung Cancer Score."

The "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 20390, and by extension, the access to care for lung cancer in the surrounding area, is inextricably linked to the overall health of the primary care system. Weaknesses in the primary care system, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and inadequate mental health support, will negatively impact the score. Conversely, a strong primary care infrastructure, characterized by a high physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources, will result in a higher score.

To further refine this analysis and gain a more complete picture, we would need to consider the specific screening rates for lung cancer within 20390. This would involve examining the percentage of eligible individuals who are undergoing recommended screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. The availability of these screening services, and the awareness of these services among the population, are key indicators of the quality of lung cancer care in the area.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the number of doctors. It encompasses the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. The specific data for ZIP Code 20390, combined with the broader context of primary care availability in Washington state, will ultimately determine the overall score and provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape for residents in this area.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 20390 and throughout Washington, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their tools can help you visualize physician distribution, access to care, and other relevant healthcare data, allowing for a more informed and data-driven assessment of the "Lung Cancer Score" and the overall health of the community.