07640, Harrington Park, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07640, Harrington Park, New Jersey is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.44 percent of the residents in 07640 has some form of health insurance. 24.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.32 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 07640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,267 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 20 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07640. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 894 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,172 health care providers accessible to residents in 07640, Harrington Park, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Harrington Park, NJ (ZIP Code 07640)

This analysis focuses on evaluating the healthcare landscape in Harrington Park, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07640), specifically concerning lung cancer care and primary care availability. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a composite assessment based on various factors influencing access to quality care, early detection, and supportive resources. This score will indirectly reflect the community's preparedness to address lung cancer, a serious disease.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway rests on the availability of robust primary care. In Harrington Park, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric indicates the potential workload of primary care physicians and, by extension, the ease with which residents can secure timely appointments. A high ratio (more patients per physician) can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from the New Jersey Department of Health and other sources, such as the US Census Bureau, will be used to determine this ratio. Furthermore, the analysis will examine the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code, assessing whether access is geographically equitable. Are practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating challenges for residents in other parts of town?

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts lung cancer outcomes. The analysis will evaluate the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for preventative care, including lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals. This involves assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for individuals meeting specific criteria (age, smoking history). The analysis will also consider the practices' commitment to patient education regarding risk factors, smoking cessation programs, and the importance of early detection.

Telemedicine adoption within primary care practices is another critical aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly for patients who may have mobility issues, transportation challenges, or live in areas with limited access to specialists. The analysis will investigate the extent to which local practices offer telehealth consultations for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up appointments. The ability to remotely access care can improve patient convenience and potentially lead to earlier intervention.

A critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will assess the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community or readily accessible through referrals from primary care practices. Are there support groups, counseling services, or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease? Integration of mental health support into the overall care plan is vital for patient well-being and adherence to treatment.

Standout practices in Harrington Park will be identified based on their comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate excellence in several key areas. These include: proactive screening programs, efficient referral pathways to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons), strong patient education initiatives, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer treatment will also be recognized. The analysis will consider patient reviews and testimonials to gauge patient satisfaction and the overall experience of navigating the healthcare system.

The analysis will also examine the availability of specialists. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to initial screening and diagnosis, the expertise of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for advanced care. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to Harrington Park, the ease of access to their services, and the presence of collaborative care models that facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals, is a positive indicator of comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the role of local hospitals and healthcare facilities in providing lung cancer care. Are there accredited cancer centers within a reasonable distance? Do these centers offer advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy? The analysis will also assess the availability of supportive services, such as palliative care and rehabilitation, to address the physical and emotional needs of patients throughout their treatment journey.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address lung cancer. It will be calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist availability, and the presence of standout practices. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Harrington Park.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower residents of Harrington Park with information about their healthcare options and to highlight areas where improvements can be made. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals can make informed decisions about their care and advocate for better access to resources. This analysis aims to be a valuable resource for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources and a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of providers, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a spatial understanding of healthcare access in Harrington Park and beyond. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to gain a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape and empower yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your health.**