07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.96 percent of the residents in 07606 has some form of health insurance. 23.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.59 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 07606 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 18 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07606. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 352 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,134 health care providers accessible to residents in 07606, South Hackensack, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare Resources in 07606 & South Hackensack

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area, like ZIP Code 07606 (Hackensack, NJ) and the nearby municipality of South Hackensack, is crucial for understanding the landscape of lung cancer care. This analysis will focus on key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective.

The foundation of strong lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). South Hackensack, being a smaller community, relies heavily on the surrounding areas for primary care services. A crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio in Bergen County, where these locations reside, is generally considered adequate, but not exceptional. This means the availability of PCPs is, at best, moderate. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. The impact of this on lung cancer patients can be significant, as early detection is paramount.

Within 07606, the presence of Hackensack University Medical Center significantly influences the healthcare ecosystem. This major hospital system attracts a concentration of specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, directly relevant to lung cancer treatment. This concentration offers a significant advantage, as patients have access to advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and clinical trials within a relatively close proximity. However, the presence of a major hospital doesn't automatically translate to universal access. Factors like insurance coverage, transportation challenges, and patient preferences also play a role.

The quality of primary care practices within and serving 07606 is a critical consideration. Assessing "standout practices" requires examining several criteria. These include patient reviews, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information sharing, the availability of preventative screenings (like lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals), and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices with a strong focus on these elements tend to provide more comprehensive and proactive care, which is especially beneficial for patients at risk for, or diagnosed with, lung cancer. Identifying these "standout" practices requires a deeper dive into publicly available data, such as physician ratings and health plan provider directories.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, and its adoption rate within the 07606 area is a key factor. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to specialists, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited access to care. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for more frequent check-ins and early detection of potential complications. The extent to which PCPs and specialists in 07606 have embraced telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. A higher adoption rate suggests improved accessibility and patient convenience.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are often accompanied by significant emotional and psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The proximity of Hackensack University Medical Center and its associated mental health services is a positive factor. However, it's essential to assess the availability of these resources specifically for lung cancer patients, including access to specialized counseling and support groups focused on the unique challenges of this disease. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 07606 and South Hackensack would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Based on the current assessment, the score would likely be moderate. The presence of Hackensack University Medical Center provides a significant advantage, but the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care in South Hackensack could be improved. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services would further elevate the score.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in 07606 and South Hackensack requires a multi-faceted approach. The analysis above provides a framework for evaluating the resources available to lung cancer patients. A more in-depth investigation, including data from various sources, would provide a more comprehensive and precise "Lung Cancer Score".

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 07606 and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare accessibility and resource distribution. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare resources in your area.