08202, Avalon, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08202, Avalon, New Jersey is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.86 percent of the residents in 08202 has some form of health insurance. 50.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.67 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 08202 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08202. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 781 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 912 health care providers accessible to residents in 08202, Avalon, New Jersey.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 08202 and Primary Care Availability in Avalon**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for healthcare access and quality within ZIP Code 08202 (Avalon, NJ) and focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, a critical factor in early lung cancer detection and overall patient well-being. The score considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs, facilitated by a strong primary care network, significantly improves patient outcomes. In Avalon (08202), the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the community's ability to participate in these crucial screenings. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests a potential strain on resources, potentially leading to delayed appointments and reduced preventative care opportunities. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates better access, allowing for more proactive patient management.

Avalon, as a barrier island community, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. Seasonal population fluctuations can significantly impact the demand for healthcare services. The influx of visitors during peak seasons can strain the existing primary care infrastructure, potentially affecting the availability of appointments and the responsiveness of healthcare providers. This seasonal variability must be considered when assessing the long-term healthcare needs of the community.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 08202 requires a comprehensive review of local physician directories, insurance provider networks, and publicly available data from organizations like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This data provides a baseline understanding of the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. The accuracy of this ratio is crucial for determining the overall accessibility of primary care services.

Identifying standout practices within 08202 involves evaluating several key metrics. These include patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening and management, and the integration of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, offer comprehensive patient education, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes should be recognized. Further, the presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who collaborate with primary care physicians, is essential for providing coordinated and comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in geographically isolated areas like Avalon. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine appointments for primary care consultations, follow-up visits, and mental health services can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The link between mental health and lung cancer is well-established. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can significantly improve patients' quality of life and overall outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score for 08202 will reflect the balance of these factors. A high score indicates a strong primary care network, with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests challenges in accessing primary care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. The score provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement.

In addition to the factors already discussed, the Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for high-risk individuals. The score assesses the extent to which primary care physicians are actively involved in recommending and facilitating these screenings, which are critical for early detection. Furthermore, the score evaluates the presence of patient education programs and resources that promote smoking cessation and other lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of lung cancer.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonology and oncology services, within a reasonable distance from 08202. The proximity of these specialists is crucial for patients who require advanced diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up care. The score assesses the efficiency of referral pathways between primary care physicians and specialists, ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The score also acknowledges the importance of health insurance coverage in accessing care. The availability of affordable health insurance options, including those offered through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), is critical for ensuring that all residents of 08202 can afford to see a primary care physician and receive necessary screenings and treatments. The score assesses the extent to which primary care practices accept a variety of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs to patients who need them.

The final Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic measure that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The score provides a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to assess the effectiveness of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. By focusing on primary care access, early detection, and comprehensive patient support, the community can work together to reduce the burden of lung cancer and improve the health and well-being of its residents.

For a detailed visualization of healthcare access and the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician density, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points within 08202 and surrounding areas.