19001, Abington, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19001, Abington, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.02 percent of the residents in 19001 has some form of health insurance. 24.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.91 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 19001 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,819 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19001. An estimate of 32 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,549 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32,000 health care providers accessible to residents in 19001, Abington, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in 19001 and Primary Care in Abington

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare, particularly in the context of lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on two key areas: the landscape of physicians within ZIP code 19001 (likely encompassing areas like Ardmore, PA), and the broader primary care environment in Abington, PA. We will assess factors relevant to lung cancer patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent medical professionals. ZIP code 19001, being a concentrated area, likely benefits from a decent density of healthcare providers. However, simply having doctors isn't enough. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A high ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially less personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access and the potential for more comprehensive treatment. Assessing this ratio requires data on the number of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the population size. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to approximate these ratios, though precise figures often require more granular, proprietary datasets.

Beyond raw numbers, identifying standout practices is critical. This involves researching practices known for their expertise in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Factors to consider include board certifications of physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., PET/CT scans, advanced bronchoscopy), participation in clinical trials, and patient outcomes. Online reviews, while subjective, can provide insights into patient experiences. Hospitals affiliated with these practices, such as those within the Main Line Health System or nearby hospitals in Philadelphia, often offer specialized lung cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams. These centers typically include pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and nurses specializing in oncology care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine offers several advantages. It can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, minimizing exposure to potential infections and travel burdens. Telemedicine platforms can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of symptoms. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires evaluating which practices and hospitals within 19001 and Abington offer telehealth services, the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the technological infrastructure supporting these services.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. This includes assessing whether practices and hospitals offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health providers. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

Primary care availability in Abington, PA, plays a pivotal role in early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential signs of lung cancer, order appropriate diagnostic tests (e.g., chest X-rays, CT scans), and refer patients to specialists is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Assessing primary care availability in Abington involves evaluating the number of PCPs per capita, the geographic distribution of practices, and the accessibility of appointments.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes evaluating the PCP's knowledge of lung cancer risk factors (e.g., smoking history, exposure to environmental hazards), their willingness to discuss these risks with patients, and their adherence to screening guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals. Data on screening rates, smoking cessation counseling, and patient satisfaction can provide valuable insights into the quality of primary care services.

The integration of these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – allows for a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within 19001 and Abington. A robust healthcare ecosystem for lung cancer patients is one where access is easy, quality is high, and support services are readily available. The absence of any of these elements can significantly impact a patient's experience and outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing healthcare availability and quality for lung cancer patients requires a multi-faceted approach. While this analysis provides a general overview, a deeper dive into specific practice data, patient outcomes, and resource availability is essential for a comprehensive understanding.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in 19001 and Abington more effectively, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.