07508, Haledon, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07508, Haledon, New Jersey is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 07508 has some form of health insurance. 36.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.05 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 07508 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,528 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07508. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,222 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,584 health care providers accessible to residents in 07508, Haledon, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 07508 & Primary Care in Haledon

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians within ZIP code 07508 (Paterson, NJ) and evaluates primary care availability in the neighboring borough of Haledon. This score is not a definitive measure of quality but rather a composite indicator reflecting factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient support, with a particular emphasis on accessibility and resource availability. The score is based on publicly available data, local news, and industry reports, and should be considered alongside individual patient experiences and preferences.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in robust primary care. In Haledon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. Assessing this involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per doctor, can potentially limit access to timely screenings, preventative care, and the necessary follow-up appointments critical for early lung cancer detection. Conversely, a favorable ratio, ideally below the national average, suggests better access to these vital services. Public health data, specifically from the New Jersey Department of Health and local hospital systems, would be examined to determine this ratio.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs within Haledon is also important. Are practices centrally located, easily accessible by public transportation, or primarily concentrated in areas with higher socioeconomic status? This analysis considers the proximity of practices to residential areas and the accessibility of transportation options. Furthermore, the availability of evening and weekend hours, as well as same-day appointment availability, is factored into the score. These elements directly impact a patient’s ability to seek care when needed, thereby influencing the likelihood of early detection and intervention.

The presence of standout primary care practices in Haledon significantly elevates the Lung Cancer Score. These practices demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to high-risk patients. The adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient data sharing and coordination of care between specialists is another key factor. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on smoking cessation programs and patient education, are also highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of a modern Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The analysis assesses the extent to which practices in Haledon and the surrounding area have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered virtually, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients.

The availability of mental health resources is another essential element. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is critical for patients navigating the challenges of treatment and recovery. The analysis considers the availability of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices, as well as the ease of referral to external mental health providers specializing in oncology. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including support groups and counseling, is highly valued.

Within ZIP code 07508, the Lung Cancer Score is also influenced by the presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices in Haledon and the ease of referral pathways are crucial. The analysis examines the collaborative relationships between primary care physicians and specialists, including the frequency of communication and the use of shared care plans. The availability of specialized diagnostic services, such as bronchoscopy and advanced imaging techniques, is also considered.

The analysis also considers the presence of comprehensive cancer centers or hospitals within a reasonable distance of Haledon. These centers often offer multidisciplinary care teams, access to clinical trials, and advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The analysis evaluates the accessibility of these centers, including transportation options and the availability of patient support services, such as financial assistance and social work.

Furthermore, the analysis examines the role of community resources in supporting lung cancer patients. This includes the availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and smoking cessation programs. The analysis assesses the extent to which primary care practices collaborate with these community resources to provide comprehensive care. The presence of educational materials and resources in multiple languages, reflecting the diverse population of the area, is also considered.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 07508 and primary care availability in Haledon is a dynamic metric, subject to change based on evolving healthcare practices, technological advancements, and the availability of resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the factors that contribute to early detection, effective treatment, and supportive care for lung cancer patients. This information empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved access to quality care within their community.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and hospital proximity, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a clear and concise representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 07508 ZIP code and the surrounding areas.