08559, Stockton, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08559, Stockton, New Jersey is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.70 percent of the residents in 08559 has some form of health insurance. 27.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.48 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 08559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,449 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,049 health care providers accessible to residents in 08559, Stockton, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Stockton, NJ (08559)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of lung cancer-related care within ZIP code 08559, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the overall healthcare landscape in Stockton, New Jersey. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to residents, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, playing a critical role in preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per patient, generally translates to better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. In Stockton, the physician-to-patient ratio needs careful scrutiny. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can offer initial insights, but this data should be supplemented with on-the-ground research. This involves analyzing the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, considering their patient load, and accounting for any specialists who also provide primary care services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating factors like the availability of preventative services, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends LDCT screening for specific populations, and the extent to which local practices adhere to these guidelines is a key indicator of quality. Furthermore, the presence of comprehensive electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability across different healthcare providers is vital. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, allowing for more coordinated care and potentially improving patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within 08559 requires a deeper dive. This includes analyzing patient reviews, assessing the accreditation status of clinics and hospitals, and evaluating the expertise of the physicians. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, early detection programs, and patient education are particularly valuable. Researching the affiliations of local practices with larger healthcare systems or cancer centers can provide insights into access to specialized services, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. These affiliations can streamline referrals and ensure patients receive comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local PCPs and specialists is essential. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs), the ease of use of the technology, and the cost of these services. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, reduce travel time for patients, and enhance the overall patient experience.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health services within 08559 requires examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. This includes evaluating the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups specifically designed for cancer patients and their families. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the primary care setting is beneficial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals or have established referral pathways to mental health providers can provide more holistic and coordinated care.

Specific examples of practices that excel in these areas should be identified. This could include practices with a strong emphasis on patient education, offering smoking cessation programs, or actively participating in lung cancer screening initiatives. It could also include practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, improving access to care for patients. The analysis should also highlight any challenges faced by patients in accessing care, such as long wait times for appointments, limited availability of specialists, or financial barriers.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Stockton. This includes the presence of hospitals, cancer centers, and other healthcare facilities. The proximity of these facilities to residents of 08559 is a crucial factor in determining access to specialized care. The analysis should also consider the availability of transportation options for patients, particularly those who may have mobility issues or who live in areas with limited public transportation.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Lung Cancer Score' for 08559 involves a multifaceted evaluation of primary care access, quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Stockton, New Jersey, and for identifying areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stockton, including the location of physician practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide a spatial perspective on the healthcare resources available in your community, allowing you to visualize access to care and make informed decisions about your health.