08505, Bordentown, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08505, Bordentown, New Jersey is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.71 percent of the residents in 08505 has some form of health insurance. 26.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.66 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 08505 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,794 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08505. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,612 health care providers accessible to residents in 08505, Bordentown, New Jersey.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Bordentown, NJ (ZIP Code 08505) - Primary Care Focus**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 08505 (Bordentown, NJ), focusing on factors crucial for early detection and comprehensive patient care, especially concerning lung cancer. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all vital elements in a patient's journey from initial screening to potential treatment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their primary care.

The foundation of this assessment rests on the critical role PCPs play in lung cancer detection. Early diagnosis is paramount, significantly increasing survival rates. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for patient education, risk assessment (smoking history, family history, etc.), and ordering necessary screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. A well-equipped and accessible primary care system is therefore essential.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility**

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio in Bordentown is fundamental. A high ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. However, this is only one piece of the puzzle. The availability of appointments, including same-day or next-day options for urgent concerns, is equally important. Data from local hospitals, insurance providers, and publicly available resources such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into these ratios. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of practices within the ZIP code influences accessibility. Practices concentrated in one area might create access challenges for residents in other parts of Bordentown.

**Standout Practices: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including proactively offering lung cancer screenings to eligible patients (based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors), deserve recognition. This includes having established protocols for ordering LDCT scans and ensuring timely follow-up for any abnormalities detected. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless communication between specialists and easy access to patient records, also score favorably. Furthermore, the quality of communication between the physician and patient is a key consideration. Practices that prioritize patient education, clear explanations, and shared decision-making processes are likely to foster better patient outcomes. Conversely, practices with limited appointment availability, long wait times, or a lack of proactive screening protocols might receive lower scores.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gaps**

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption by PCPs in Bordentown is a significant factor in this assessment. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from a practice. The types of telemedicine services offered are also important. Practices that offer virtual visits for routine check-ups, medication management, and even mental health counseling are more likely to receive higher scores. Furthermore, the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, including technical support and integration with the practice's EHR system, is a key consideration. Practices that have not adopted telemedicine or offer limited services may face challenges in providing comprehensive care.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore crucial. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, into their care teams are better equipped to support patients through the emotional challenges of their illness. This integration can take various forms, including on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of telehealth for mental health services. Practices that routinely screen for depression and anxiety, offer support groups, or provide access to educational resources on coping with cancer are more likely to receive higher scores. The absence of these resources can negatively impact a patient's overall well-being and treatment adherence.

**Specific Examples and Data Sources**

Due to the sensitive nature of healthcare data, specific physician names and practice details are not included in this generalized analysis. However, the analysis relies on data sources such as public health reports, insurance provider directories, and online physician review platforms to inform the assessment. These sources are used to assess the availability of services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The information gathered from these sources is then used to create a composite score for each practice, reflecting its overall performance in the areas discussed above.

**Conclusion**

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a framework for evaluating the primary care landscape in Bordentown, NJ. The focus is on factors that contribute to early detection, comprehensive care, and patient well-being. The assessment emphasizes the importance of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Patients are encouraged to actively research and choose a PCP that aligns with their individual needs and preferences. By considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions and improve their chances of receiving the best possible care.

For a more detailed, interactive, and geographically visualized understanding of physician locations, practice details, and other relevant healthcare data in Bordentown (ZIP code 08505), we invite you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.