08736, Manasquan, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08736, Manasquan, New Jersey is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.41 percent of the residents in 08736 has some form of health insurance. 22.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.99 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 08736 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,949 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08736. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,610 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,360 health care providers accessible to residents in 08736, Manasquan, New Jersey.

The analysis below examines the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 08736, focusing on primary care availability in Manasquan, New Jersey. This assessment considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support, all within the context of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Physician accessibility is a critical determinant of timely diagnosis and care. Within 08736, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key indicator. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios fluctuate, the overall trend is important. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the crucial initial steps in lung cancer detection, such as a physical exam and ordering imaging. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for quicker access to screening and diagnostic services. This ease of access is especially important for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

The quality of primary care practices in Manasquan significantly impacts the effectiveness of lung cancer care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., those with a history of smoking), are particularly valuable. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a positive indicator. EHRs streamline the referral process, ensuring that patients receive prompt and coordinated care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, providing clear and accessible information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options, are also highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in the context of lung cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for patients in areas with limited access to pulmonologists or oncologists. Virtual consultations can facilitate initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide support can be particularly beneficial for those undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving overall patient comfort. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer virtual appointments are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals, is crucial. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues and offer or facilitate access to appropriate support services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing information about local support groups and mental health professionals specializing in oncology.

Standout practices within 08736 likely exhibit a combination of the above factors. They will likely have a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, ensuring timely access to appointments. They will prioritize preventative care, including robust smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening initiatives. They will have adopted EHRs for efficient information sharing and coordination of care. Telemedicine adoption will be integrated, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. Most importantly, these practices will recognize the importance of mental health support and provide access to these services for their patients.

To further enhance the analysis, examining specific practices within Manasquan requires more granular data. This includes researching the availability of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists in the area, and assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, used for lung cancer screening. Investigating the practice's participation in clinical trials, which can offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments, is also critical. Furthermore, evaluating patient satisfaction scores and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience within each practice.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Manasquan and its impact on lung cancer care is an ongoing process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and care models emerging regularly. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting key factors that influence patient outcomes. Regular updates and refinements are necessary to ensure the information remains accurate and relevant.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the availability of specialized services related to lung cancer care in the 08736 area, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a visual and data-driven approach to understanding the complexities of healthcare access, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care and navigate the local healthcare landscape with greater confidence.