08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.55 percent of the residents in 08059 has some form of health insurance. 33.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.06 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 08059 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,240 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08059. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 677 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,933 health care providers accessible to residents in 08059, Mount Ephraim, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Ephraim (08059)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 08059 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. The analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the broader healthcare ecosystem within Mount Ephraim, New Jersey. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a comparative assessment based on publicly available data and industry best practices.

**Physician Availability and Patient Access:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Mount Ephraim is a critical indicator. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), provides insights into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population served. A lower ratio, reflecting more patients per physician, suggests potential access challenges. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time for patient education, and potentially delayed diagnosis. The analysis considers the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, which are crucial for addressing acute respiratory symptoms that could warrant lung cancer screening.

**Practice Characteristics and Screening Practices:**

The practices themselves are evaluated based on their adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines. This includes the utilization of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients (those with a significant smoking history and age criteria). The analysis investigates whether practices actively identify and counsel patients who meet the screening criteria, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This also includes documentation of smoking cessation counseling, which is a vital component of lung cancer prevention. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to screening and prevention, including the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors and schedule screenings, will receive higher scores.

**Standout Practices and Their Attributes:**

Certain practices within Mount Ephraim may stand out based on their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This analysis seeks to identify practices that have adopted innovative approaches, such as patient navigators who guide patients through the screening and diagnostic process. Practices that collaborate with pulmonologists and oncologists to ensure seamless referrals and coordinated care are also given consideration. The presence of dedicated smoking cessation programs, which provide evidence-based support for patients seeking to quit smoking, is another positive indicator. The analysis will highlight any practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education efforts related to lung cancer awareness and prevention.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, and its adoption within Mount Ephraim practices is assessed. The ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations for certain patients can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their workflow, particularly for smoking cessation counseling or post-screening follow-up, are viewed favorably. The analysis will consider the availability of telehealth platforms that are secure, user-friendly, and accessible to patients.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. This analysis considers the availability of mental health resources within the practices or through referrals. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established relationships with mental health professionals are given higher scores. The analysis also considers the availability of support groups, educational materials, and resources for patients and their families. The ability to address the emotional and psychological needs of patients is a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

**Specific Considerations for Mount Ephraim:**

Mount Ephraim's proximity to larger healthcare systems and hospitals is a factor in the analysis. The availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance, such as those in nearby Camden or Philadelphia, is considered. The analysis assesses the ease of access to these centers for residents of Mount Ephraim, including transportation options and referral processes. The analysis will also consider any specific initiatives or programs that are tailored to the needs of the Mount Ephraim community, such as community health fairs or educational workshops.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Assessment:**

The final Lung Cancer Score for each practice is a composite of these factors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient access, evidence-based screening practices, patient education, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support will receive higher scores. The analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Mount Ephraim, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements can be made. This analysis is intended to serve as a starting point for patients seeking primary care in the area and to encourage ongoing improvements in lung cancer care delivery.

**Conclusion:**

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare environment in Mount Ephraim (08059). Understanding the availability of primary care, the screening practices employed, and the support services offered is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Mount Ephraim and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome.