08738, Mantoloking, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 08738, Mantoloking, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.40 percent of the residents in 08738 has some form of health insurance. 37.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.15 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 08738 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08738. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 506 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,370 health care providers accessible to residents in 08738, Mantoloking, New Jersey.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 08738 & Mantoloking Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 08738, encompassing the town of Mantoloking, necessitates a nuanced approach. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates factors relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and the resources available to support patient well-being. The ultimate goal is to provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, specifically highlighting strengths and weaknesses related to lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals, is crucial. The availability of PCPs directly influences access to these screenings and subsequent specialist referrals. Mantoloking, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges in this regard. The seasonal population fluctuations, with a significant influx of residents during the summer months, can strain existing healthcare resources. This influx could potentially impact the physician-to-patient ratio, making it more challenging to secure timely appointments and preventative care.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of PCP density within the 08738 ZIP code. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential barriers to access. The analysis should also consider the age and health profile of the population. An older demographic, common in coastal communities, often requires more frequent medical attention, potentially exacerbating any existing access limitations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. The Lung Cancer Score should evaluate the integration of evidence-based practices. This includes the adoption of national guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The analysis should ascertain whether local PCPs actively recommend screening for eligible patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. Furthermore, the score will assess the efficiency of referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Delays in referral can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Standout practices within the 08738 area warrant specific recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporate advanced technologies, and actively participate in community health initiatives is crucial. This might involve practices that have implemented robust electronic health record (EHR) systems, enabling seamless information sharing between providers. It could also include practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or other accommodations to improve patient convenience. Furthermore, practices actively involved in community outreach programs, such as smoking cessation initiatives or lung cancer awareness campaigns, should receive positive recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor in modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for patients in geographically isolated areas or those with mobility limitations. The Lung Cancer Score should assess the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs. This includes evaluating the use of virtual consultations for routine follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. The ability to offer remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions, such as COPD, which is often linked to lung cancer, can also significantly improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score must evaluate the availability of mental health services within the 08738 area. This includes assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to qualified therapists and psychiatrists. The analysis should also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan, ensuring that patients receive the emotional support they need.

The analysis of primary care availability in Mantoloking must also consider the impact of healthcare disparities. Factors such as socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can significantly influence a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care. The Lung Cancer Score should identify any potential disparities and assess the efforts being made to address them. This might involve community health programs targeting underserved populations or initiatives to improve access to affordable healthcare services.

The Lung Cancer Score is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative factors. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise picture of the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care within the 08738 area, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. This analysis will be a dynamic document, requiring periodic updates to reflect changes in healthcare practices, technology, and patient needs.

The data gathered for this analysis, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, can be visualized and explored using powerful mapping tools. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 08738 and Mantoloking, including the location of primary care physicians, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers a user-friendly platform to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.