07718, Belford, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07718, Belford, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 07718 has some form of health insurance. 17.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.36 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 07718 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,668 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07718. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 954 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 07718, Belford, New Jersey.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 07718 and Primary Care Availability in Belford**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within the context of lung cancer risk and treatment, specifically focusing on physicians practicing in ZIP code 07718 and the broader primary care landscape in Belford, New Jersey. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on healthcare access for individuals potentially facing lung cancer concerns, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The 07718 ZIP code encompasses a specific geographical area, and the concentration of primary care physicians within it is a critical starting point. A high physician-to-patient ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, early screenings, and proactive management of risk factors like smoking, which are vital for lung cancer prevention and early detection. Conversely, a low ratio may indicate longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the New Jersey Department of Health can be used to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing in the area. This data is then compared to the estimated population of 07718 to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the practices themselves are essential. The presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine, family medicine, and general practice is a positive indicator of quality. Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within these practices, such as on-site diagnostic testing (e.g., spirometry to assess lung function) and smoking cessation programs, can significantly impact the quality of care. Practices that proactively screen for lung cancer risk factors and offer patient education materials demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can be a game-changer for patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Telemedicine can also improve access to specialists located outside of the immediate area, potentially facilitating earlier diagnoses and treatment plans. The extent to which practices in 07718 offer telemedicine services, and the types of services available, needs to be examined.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is becoming increasingly recognized as essential. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have strong referral networks to mental health specialists, are better equipped to support patients through this difficult journey. The availability of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a key consideration in the overall assessment.

Primary care availability in Belford, a community within the broader 07718 area, requires specific attention. While the physician-to-patient ratio in the ZIP code provides a general overview, the availability of primary care practices *within* Belford itself may vary. Some areas might have more concentrated primary care resources than others. Analyzing the distribution of practices within Belford and the types of services they offer is critical for residents of the community.

Standout practices within 07718, if any, deserve recognition. These practices might be distinguished by their comprehensive services, high patient satisfaction scores, innovative use of technology, or strong community outreach efforts. Identifying these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and can highlight best practices that other providers can emulate. This assessment would involve examining patient reviews, conducting interviews with healthcare professionals, and analyzing practice websites.

The assessment also considers the availability of support services related to lung cancer treatment. This includes access to oncology specialists, radiation therapy centers, and support groups. The proximity of these services to 07718, and the ease with which patients can access them, are important factors in the overall quality of care.

The analysis also considers the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. The types of insurance accepted by primary care practices in 07718, and the availability of financial assistance programs for uninsured or underinsured patients, can significantly impact the ability of individuals to receive timely and appropriate care.

The analysis will also consider the demographic characteristics of the population served by the primary care practices in 07718. This includes factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Understanding the demographic profile of the patient population can help to identify potential disparities in access to care and to tailor healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community.

The use of data analytics and mapping tools can enhance the assessment. Tools like CartoChrome maps can be used to visualize the geographic distribution of primary care practices, specialists, and support services. This visualization can help to identify areas with limited access to care and to highlight potential gaps in services.

In conclusion, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services in 07718 and Belford requires a comprehensive approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.

**Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape in 07718 and Belford? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, service availability, and potential gaps in care. Click here to learn more and start mapping your healthcare journey today!**