07057, Wallington, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07057, Wallington, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.72 percent of the residents in 07057 has some form of health insurance. 29.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.64 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 07057 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,050 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 21 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07057. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,728 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,445 health care providers accessible to residents in 07057, Wallington, New Jersey.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care and primary care access within the ZIP code 07057 (Wallington, New Jersey) and provides a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" based on available data and publicly accessible information. This score is not a formal medical rating but rather an analytical tool to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment. The analysis considers factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to mental health resources.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Wallington, like many suburban areas, likely experiences fluctuations in PCP availability. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the New Jersey Department of Health can be used to estimate the population of Wallington. Then, directories such as the American Medical Association (AMA) Physician Finder and online insurance provider directories can be consulted to identify practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. A low physician-to-patient ratio (meaning fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

Specialized care, particularly pulmonology and oncology, is essential for lung cancer patients. While Wallington itself might not have a high concentration of these specialists, access to nearby hospitals and medical centers is critical. Facilities in surrounding towns, such as Hackensack University Medical Center and St. Joseph's University Medical Center in Paterson, offer comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The proximity of these centers, and their ability to accept patients from Wallington, significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." The availability of these specialists and their ability to work with the primary care physicians in Wallington is paramount.

The "Lung Cancer Score" must also consider the characteristics of local medical practices. Some practices may stand out due to their focus on patient-centered care, their adoption of advanced technologies, or their commitment to community outreach. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments improve access to care. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems often have access to a broader range of resources and specialists. The availability of on-site diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and CT scans, can expedite diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience and access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations. The ability to conduct virtual visits can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to transportation. The adoption rate of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in the area is a critical factor in assessing the overall "Lung Cancer Score."

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for patients and their families. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The presence of these resources, whether integrated within the practices or available through referrals, contributes significantly to the "Lung Cancer Score."

Specific practices within the area can be evaluated based on their adherence to these factors. For instance, a practice that offers extended hours, telemedicine options, and on-site diagnostic imaging, and has established relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists, would likely receive a higher score than a practice that offers fewer of these services. Reviews from patients on websites like Healthgrades and Zocdoc can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wallington, NJ (07057) is also affected by the availability of resources for lung cancer screening and early detection. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals at high risk for lung cancer. Practices that actively promote and facilitate screening, and are familiar with the USPSTF guidelines, improve the score. The ability to quickly refer patients for screening, and to interpret the results accurately, is crucial.

Furthermore, the availability of patient education materials and support groups is important. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients. The presence of local support groups, such as those offered by the American Lung Association or the Cancer Support Community, can provide invaluable emotional support and guidance.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Wallington, NJ (07057) is a composite of these factors. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the proximity of specialists, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the emphasis on lung cancer screening and patient support. The score is dynamic and can change over time as healthcare providers adapt to new technologies and patient needs. It is a tool for understanding the healthcare landscape, not a definitive judgment.

To visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, and to understand the geographic relationships between these elements, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to see the healthcare landscape in a new way, providing a visual representation of the factors discussed above. Explore how CartoChrome maps can help you understand the healthcare environment in Wallington and beyond.