08108, Collingswood, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08108, Collingswood, New Jersey is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.14 percent of the residents in 08108 has some form of health insurance. 22.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.52 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 08108 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 18 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08108. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,290 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,239 health care providers accessible to residents in 08108, Collingswood, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 08108 & Collingswood Primary Care

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection and management within ZIP code 08108 (likely encompassing parts of Camden County, New Jersey) and the broader context of primary care access in Collingswood, a borough within the same county. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," a qualitative assessment of the environment’s preparedness to address lung cancer concerns, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. This score will be a subjective interpretation, based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends, rather than a statistically validated metric.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in early detection. This, in turn, hinges on robust primary care. Collingswood's primary care availability significantly impacts the overall score. A town with readily accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) who are proactive in screening, patient education, and referral practices will naturally score higher. Factors like the number of PCPs per capita, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are crucial. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local hospital networks can provide insights into these metrics.

Physician-to-patient ratios within 08108 are a critical component. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time PCPs have for preventative care, including lung cancer screening discussions. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system, allowing for more comprehensive patient care. The analysis will consider the overall physician density in the ZIP code, focusing on PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists. This information is often obtainable through state medical board databases and online physician directories.

Standout practices within 08108 will be identified based on several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for high-risk individuals. Practices actively promoting low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for eligible patients will be considered favorably. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education regarding lung cancer risk factors (smoking history, radon exposure, family history) and prevention strategies will be highlighted. This evaluation will incorporate information on the availability of smoking cessation programs and resources.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital. Its impact on lung cancer care is substantial. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited specialist availability. Practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms for these purposes will receive positive consideration. The analysis will investigate the availability of virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other relevant specialists.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients and their families. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within 08108 and the surrounding area. This includes the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The degree to which primary care practices integrate mental health screening and referral processes into their workflow will also be considered.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for 08108, with the context of Collingswood primary care, will be a composite assessment. It will reflect the strengths and weaknesses identified across the various factors discussed. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment, characterized by readily accessible primary care, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, proactive screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health support. A lower score would signal areas needing improvement, such as limited access to primary care, fewer screening initiatives, and a lack of integrated mental health services.

For example, if Collingswood has a high concentration of PCPs with excellent patient-to-physician ratios, and if a significant portion of those PCPs actively screen for lung cancer, the score will be elevated. Conversely, if the ZIP code 08108 has a shortage of pulmonologists, and if practices are slow to adopt telemedicine, the score will be negatively impacted. The availability of local support groups for cancer patients, and the presence of mental health professionals specializing in oncology, will also be factored in.

The process of arriving at this score involves a thorough review of publicly available data. This includes online physician directories, hospital websites, insurance provider networks, and local government resources. The analysis will also incorporate information from reputable healthcare organizations, such as the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and informed assessment of the healthcare landscape within the specified area.

The final score is not intended to be a definitive judgment. It is a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment and identifying potential areas for improvement. It is a tool to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for better access to quality care. The score is intended to be a reflection of the current state of healthcare resources.

The analysis will consider the presence of any local hospitals or cancer centers that offer specialized lung cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities will also be taken into account. The overall goal is to provide a holistic view of the resources available to patients diagnosed with or at risk for lung cancer within the specified geographical area.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in 08108 and the primary care availability in Collingswood is crucial for effective lung cancer prevention and management. The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment. This analysis is intended to be a starting point for further investigation and advocacy.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in your area, including physician locations, hospital networks, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers powerful mapping capabilities that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care.