08731, Forked River, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08731, Forked River, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.42 percent of the residents in 08731 has some form of health insurance. 31.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.67 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 08731 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,211 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08731. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,869 health care providers accessible to residents in 08731, Forked River, New Jersey.

The analysis below offers a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care resources within ZIP code 08731, specifically focusing on Forked River, New Jersey. This evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the landscape for individuals seeking lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within this community.

Forked River, nestled within ZIP code 08731, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The area's demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, play a crucial role in shaping the demand for and the availability of healthcare services. A detailed examination of these factors is essential to understand the specific needs of the population when assessing lung cancer care.

Primary care serves as the crucial first point of contact for individuals exhibiting symptoms or at risk of lung cancer. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The assessment must identify the number of PCPs practicing within the 08731 area and compare this to the population size. This comparison provides a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is important. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving other parts of Forked River underserved? Are there practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, ensuring that care is accessible to all residents regardless of their financial situation? The geographical distribution and insurance acceptance policies of primary care practices are critical components of the overall assessment.

Identifying standout practices is a key element of this analysis. These practices may excel in various areas, such as early lung cancer screening programs, patient education initiatives, or the integration of advanced diagnostic technologies. This involves researching the specific services offered by each practice, their patient satisfaction ratings, and their commitment to providing comprehensive care. Look for practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education programs related to lung cancer prevention and early detection.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or for patients with mobility issues. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 08731 is a significant factor. The analysis should investigate which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to specialists through telehealth platforms. Telemedicine can help bridge geographical barriers and improve access to timely care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial aspect of the care continuum. The assessment must identify mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, who are practicing within the 08731 area. It is also important to determine whether primary care practices have integrated mental health services into their care models. This could involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or collaborations with support groups.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to these specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The analysis should identify the number of specialists practicing in or near 08731, their affiliations with hospitals, and the types of treatments they offer.

Furthermore, the assessment should investigate the presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations within the community. These resources provide emotional support, educational materials, and practical assistance to patients and their families. The analysis should identify the locations and contact information for such groups and organizations.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the availability of resources. Patient outcomes are also influenced by factors such as physician experience, the use of evidence-based practices, and the integration of technology. The analysis should consider these factors by examining physician credentials, practice accreditations, and the use of electronic health records.

The analysis should also assess the level of community awareness regarding lung cancer prevention and early detection. This involves investigating the presence of public health campaigns, educational programs, and screening initiatives. The more informed the community is, the more likely individuals are to seek timely medical attention.

The assessment will also consider the local hospital systems and their capacity to handle lung cancer cases. This includes the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, as well as the expertise of medical staff. The analysis should identify the hospitals serving the 08731 area and evaluate their capabilities in lung cancer care.

Finally, the analysis should consider the overall healthcare environment in 08731. This includes factors such as the cost of care, the availability of transportation to medical appointments, and the cultural sensitivity of healthcare providers. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and receive quality care.

In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis provides a detailed assessment of lung cancer care resources in Forked River, NJ (08731). By examining primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis provides a valuable overview for residents and healthcare providers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 08731, including the locations of medical practices, specialists, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool to visualize healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of access and availability.