08083, Somerdale, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08083, Somerdale, New Jersey is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.49 percent of the residents in 08083 has some form of health insurance. 33.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.56 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 08083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,052 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08083. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,719 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,374 health care providers accessible to residents in 08083, Somerdale, New Jersey.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 08083 (Somerdale, NJ) and the broader context of primary care availability, crucial for early detection and ongoing management. This is not a simple ranking but a nuanced assessment of the factors influencing patient outcomes in the fight against lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs, facilitated by a robust primary care network, significantly improves survival rates. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Somerdale, therefore, is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a PCP can dedicate to each patient, including those at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. This can impact the ability to schedule timely screenings, discuss risk factors, and coordinate specialist referrals.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere numbers. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is essential for seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and hospitals. This allows for better care coordination, reduced medical errors, and improved patient outcomes. The extent to which PCPs utilize EHRs, including features like automated reminders for screening appointments and readily accessible patient histories, is a significant factor in our assessment.

Specialist availability is another crucial element. Oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons are vital for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The concentration of these specialists within a reasonable geographic radius of 08083 is a positive indicator. Travel time to specialists can significantly impact patient experience and adherence to treatment plans. We evaluate the proximity of these specialists, including the presence of specialized cancer centers equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as advanced imaging and radiation therapy.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability of PCPs and specialists to offer virtual consultations can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in more rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., initial consultations, follow-up appointments, medication management), is a key consideration. We also assess the technological infrastructure supporting telemedicine, including the ease of use of platforms and the availability of technical support for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and its treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is crucial. We examine the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including whether PCPs and specialists routinely screen patients for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources.

Standout practices within the 08083 area are identified based on several criteria. These include their commitment to evidence-based medicine, their patient satisfaction ratings, their participation in clinical trials, and their adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as lung cancer screening awareness campaigns, are also highly regarded. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, bringing together PCPs, specialists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to collaborate on patient care, is a significant advantage.

Specific practices are assessed based on the above criteria, and their strengths and weaknesses are evaluated. For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio might be offset by its robust telemedicine offerings and strong patient satisfaction scores. Another practice might have excellent specialist access but lack comprehensive mental health support. The overall score reflects a composite of these factors, providing a holistic view of the quality of lung cancer care available in the area.

The analysis considers the availability of support groups and patient education resources. Lung cancer patients and their families often benefit from connecting with others who have similar experiences. The presence of support groups, either in-person or online, and the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and educational programs, are considered. These resources can empower patients to take an active role in their care and improve their overall well-being.

The evaluation also considers the role of hospitals and other healthcare facilities in the area. The presence of accredited cancer centers, the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and the hospital’s commitment to patient-centered care are all important factors. The hospital’s collaboration with PCPs and specialists in the community is also assessed, as this ensures seamless care coordination and improved patient outcomes.

The analysis also explores the impact of socioeconomic factors on lung cancer care. These include factors such as insurance coverage, access to transportation, and health literacy. The availability of resources to address these challenges, such as financial assistance programs, transportation services, and culturally sensitive healthcare providers, is considered.

The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in 08083 and the surrounding areas. This assessment helps patients, their families, and healthcare providers understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identify areas for improvement. It also provides valuable information for policymakers and healthcare organizations to make informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare delivery.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 08083 is a composite score reflecting the factors discussed above. This score is not a definitive ranking, but rather a tool to help patients and healthcare providers understand the complexities of lung cancer care in the area. The score is designed to be dynamic and updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, specialist proximity, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps created by CartoChrome. These maps offer a detailed, data-driven view of the healthcare landscape in 08083 and beyond.