18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18439 has some form of health insurance. 46.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.69 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 18439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18439. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 18439 ZIP code, focusing on factors impacting patient care, particularly concerning early detection and management of lung cancer. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lakewood, Pennsylvania.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway lies in accessible and robust primary care. The initial assessment begins with an examination of physician-to-patient ratios. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources, potentially delaying appointments and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive screening, crucial for early lung cancer detection. Data on physician density within 18439, including the number of active primary care physicians and the population served, is essential. This data, ideally sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar agencies, provides a baseline for evaluating the overall availability of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the Lung Cancer Score. Are practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners, recommended for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals? The presence of these technologies within the community or easy access to them through referral networks is a critical factor. Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, including adherence to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for eligible patients, is a key indicator of proactive care. Practices that actively identify and screen high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens, demonstrate a commitment to early detection.

Standout practices in Lakewood would exhibit a combination of these positive attributes. They would have a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, ensuring timely access to appointments. They would proactively implement lung cancer screening programs, utilizing LDCT scans and adhering to established guidelines. They would also demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources and support to help individuals understand their risk factors and make informed decisions about their health. These practices would likely have a well-established referral network, facilitating access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, for patients requiring further evaluation or treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape, particularly in rural areas like Lakewood. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and follow-up care without the need for extensive travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve patient convenience and potentially reduce delays in care. The Lung Cancer Score would reflect the extent to which primary care practices in 18439 have integrated telemedicine into their operations, including the availability of virtual screening consultations, remote monitoring for patients undergoing treatment, and online access to medical records.

The holistic approach to healthcare is critical. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, impacting patients' mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks is therefore a vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established partnerships with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to addressing the psychological needs of their patients. This includes providing support for anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that may arise during the cancer journey.

Furthermore, the level of patient education and support provided by primary care practices is a key differentiator. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options, are more likely to foster positive patient outcomes. This includes providing educational materials, organizing support groups, and offering access to patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The Lung Cancer Score would assess the extent to which practices prioritize patient education and support, recognizing its vital role in empowering individuals to take control of their health.

The analysis would also examine the practices' commitment to continuous improvement. This includes participation in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on lung cancer screening rates or adherence to treatment guidelines. Practices that regularly monitor their performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to enhance patient care demonstrate a commitment to providing the highest quality of care possible. The Lung Cancer Score would reflect the practices' participation in these initiatives and their commitment to ongoing quality improvement.

Finally, the analysis considers the overall healthcare ecosystem in Lakewood. This includes the presence of hospitals, specialty clinics, and other healthcare providers that can support primary care practices in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The Lung Cancer Score would assess the accessibility of these resources, including the proximity of hospitals with oncology departments, the availability of pulmonologists, and the ease of access to diagnostic imaging services. A well-integrated healthcare ecosystem is essential for ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care in Lakewood (18439) is a multifaceted assessment that goes beyond simply counting doctors. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the utilization of technology like telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall commitment to patient education and support. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve lung cancer care in the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Lakewood and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can overlay various healthcare data points, including physician locations, screening rates, and resource availability, allowing you to explore the landscape in a dynamic and informative way. **Visit CartoChrome to explore the data and visualize the healthcare landscape in Lakewood.**