08016, Burlington, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08016, Burlington, New Jersey is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.38 percent of the residents in 08016 has some form of health insurance. 30.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.26 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 08016 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,228 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08016. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,508 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,454 health care providers accessible to residents in 08016, Burlington, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 08016 & Burlington Primary Care

This analysis aims to provide a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 08016, focusing on factors crucial to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, particularly in the context of lung cancer. The analysis also examines the broader primary care landscape in Burlington County, New Jersey, to understand resource availability and access. This score isn't a numerical grade, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the elements outlined below.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount. This necessitates a proactive approach from primary care physicians, including diligent screening protocols for at-risk patients, primarily those with a history of smoking. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. Furthermore, a comprehensive understanding of patient risk factors, including family history, environmental exposures, and other comorbidities, is vital.

Within ZIP code 08016, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios provide insight into the potential burden on existing providers. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into these ratios, identifying areas of potential shortage. The analysis will investigate the density of primary care providers within the ZIP code and compare it to regional and national averages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care varies. Standout practices demonstrate excellence in several areas. This includes a commitment to patient education regarding smoking cessation, a proactive approach to screening, and a well-coordinated referral system to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing and improved care coordination, are also highly valued. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to evidence-based guidelines demonstrate a commitment to providing the best possible care.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to care by reducing travel time and facilitating virtual consultations. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices within ZIP code 08016, examining the types of services offered and the technologies used.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of the disease, coupled with the physical challenges of treatment, can significantly impact a patient's well-being. Primary care physicians should be equipped to screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Burlington County and the extent to which primary care practices integrate these resources into their care plans. This includes examining the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or chronic illness.

The availability of support groups and patient education programs is also important. These resources can provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. Primary care practices that actively connect patients with these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The analysis will investigate the presence of these resources in the Burlington County area and how primary care practices facilitate access to them.

Burlington County's overall primary care landscape also influences the LCS. County-wide initiatives, such as public health programs focused on smoking cessation and early cancer detection, can positively impact patient outcomes. The analysis will consider the presence and effectiveness of these programs. Furthermore, the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor. Patients need access to experienced oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists.

The analysis will also consider the accessibility of care, including factors like insurance acceptance and language accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer services in multiple languages are more likely to serve a diverse patient population. This ensures that all residents of ZIP code 08016 have equal access to quality primary care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive LCS assessment for ZIP code 08016 and Burlington County requires a multi-faceted approach. It goes beyond simply counting physicians; it considers the quality of care, the availability of resources, and the overall accessibility of services. The analysis provides a qualitative overview, highlighting key strengths and weaknesses within the primary care landscape. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve lung cancer care in the area.

For a more detailed visual representation of the primary care landscape in ZIP code 08016 and Burlington County, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. They offer a powerful tool for understanding the distribution of resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.