08528, Kingston, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08528, Kingston, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 08528 has some form of health insurance. 64.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 08528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 142 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,729 health care providers accessible to residents in 08528, Kingston, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Kingston, NJ (ZIP Code 08528)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 08528, focusing on factors relevant to patient care and outcomes. It also considers the broader context of primary care availability in Kingston, New Jersey. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, particularly as it relates to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single, quantifiable metric. Instead, it's a composite assessment derived from evaluating several key areas. These areas include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in the patient journey, especially for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental aspect of healthcare access is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in 08528, and indeed in Kingston, is a critical starting point. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, should be consulted to ascertain the current ratio. This data will reveal if the area is considered a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), which would significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are physicians clustered in specific areas of Kingston, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? This spatial analysis impacts access, particularly for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals. The proximity of primary care offices to public transportation and the availability of transportation assistance programs are also crucial considerations.

**Standout Practices and Specialization:**

The presence of specialized practices, particularly those with expertise in pulmonology, oncology, and thoracic surgery, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Practices with board-certified specialists in these fields are highly valued. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and social workers, further enhances the score.

When assessing standout practices, consider factors like patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., from the Commission on Cancer), and participation in clinical trials. Practices actively involved in research and offering cutting-edge treatment options, such as minimally invasive surgery and targeted therapies, receive a higher score. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, is another critical factor.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine by physicians in 08528 is a significant component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals receive a higher score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support.

The ease of use and accessibility of telemedicine platforms are also important. Do practices offer user-friendly platforms that are accessible to patients with varying levels of technological proficiency? Do they provide technical support for patients who need it? The availability of telemedicine in multiple languages is also a positive factor, reflecting a commitment to serving a diverse patient population.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, or that have established referral networks with mental health professionals, receive a higher score.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also important. Support groups provide patients with a safe space to share their experiences, connect with others who understand their challenges, and receive emotional support. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of palliative care services, which focus on managing pain and improving quality of life, is also a critical factor.

**Specific Considerations for 08528:**

To provide a more specific analysis for 08528, further research is required. This would involve:

* **Data Collection:** Gathering data on physician demographics, specialties, and practice locations within the ZIP code.
* **Practice Reviews:** Analyzing patient reviews, accreditations, and participation in clinical trials for practices in the area.
* **Telemedicine Assessment:** Investigating the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including platform accessibility and language support.
* **Mental Health Resource Mapping:** Identifying and assessing the availability of mental health services and support groups in the area.
* **Community Outreach:** Evaluating the practice's efforts to reach underserved populations and promote lung cancer screening.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 08528 is a complex assessment that requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, a more informed picture of the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in Kingston can be created. This analysis underscores the importance of considering these factors when evaluating healthcare providers and making informed decisions about care.

**Call to Action:**

For a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to care within 08528 and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can visually represent physician density, proximity to patients, and access to essential services, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.