07027, Garwood, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07027, Garwood, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.13 percent of the residents in 07027 has some form of health insurance. 24.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.95 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 07027 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 773 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07027. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 878 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,027 health care providers accessible to residents in 07027, Garwood, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Garwood, NJ (ZIP Code 07027)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 07027 (Garwood, NJ) and its surrounding areas, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and supportive care. This is not a numerical score, but a qualitative assessment based on available data and industry best practices.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection, through screening and prompt referral, significantly improves patient outcomes. In Garwood, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is a critical indicator. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the New Jersey Department of Health provides insight into this ratio. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially delay appointments, impacting timely screening recommendations. We need to assess the current ratio and compare it to state and national averages. A lower ratio generally indicates better access to care.

Within the 07027 ZIP code, the presence of standout primary care practices is paramount. These practices are characterized by several key elements. Firstly, a commitment to preventative care is crucial. This includes actively recommending lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. Secondly, the practices must employ a robust electronic health record (EHR) system, allowing for efficient patient data management, tracking of screening recommendations, and seamless communication with specialists. Thirdly, the practices should have a strong network of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists, to facilitate prompt referrals and coordinated care. Identifying these standout practices requires research into patient reviews, physician profiles, and practice websites.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in modern healthcare, particularly in areas like Garwood. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. The availability of telemedicine options among primary care physicians in 07027 is a factor in our assessment. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially for patients who may have mobility issues or transportation challenges, receive a higher score. The type of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) also affects the score.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals, is a crucial component of our "Lung Cancer Score" analysis. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, offer counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals receive a higher score. The accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and wait times, is also considered.

The proximity to specialized lung cancer treatment centers also influences the overall assessment. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of nearby hospitals and cancer centers equipped with advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., low-dose CT scans) and treatment options (e.g., surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy) is vital. The presence of these resources within a reasonable travel distance enhances the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

To further refine this analysis, we consider the specific demographics of Garwood. Factors like the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of smoking, and socioeconomic indicators can influence the risk of lung cancer and the need for specific resources. Data from the US Census Bureau and local health departments can provide valuable insights into these demographics.

Beyond individual practices, the overall healthcare ecosystem in Garwood is evaluated. This includes the presence of community health initiatives, support groups for cancer patients, and educational programs on lung cancer prevention and early detection. These resources contribute to a more comprehensive and supportive environment for patients.

The evaluation of "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic process, requiring continuous monitoring and updates. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging. Regular reassessment of the factors discussed above is essential to maintain an accurate and relevant analysis.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Garwood is not a static number, but a holistic assessment of the factors that contribute to the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. It highlights areas of strength and areas where improvement is needed. This information is valuable for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The availability of data is a key factor in this analysis. Publicly available data sources, such as the New Jersey Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the US Census Bureau, provide valuable information on physician-to-patient ratios, demographics, and health indicators. However, the availability and granularity of data can vary, and gaps in information may exist.

The analysis must also consider the limitations of publicly available data. Data may not always be up-to-date or reflect the most current healthcare landscape. Furthermore, the quality and accuracy of data can vary depending on the source.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Garwood involves a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the surrounding healthcare ecosystem. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but a qualitative assessment of the factors that influence the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Garwood and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the CartoChrome maps and visualize the healthcare resources in your area.**