19004, Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19004, Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.24 percent of the residents in 19004 has some form of health insurance. 33.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.07 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 19004 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,921 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19004. An estimate of 32 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,260 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32,689 health care providers accessible to residents in 19004, Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Bala Cynwyd (ZIP Code 19004)**

Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, a suburban community nestled just outside Philadelphia, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and primary care availability. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 19004, aims to provide a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment, evaluating the quality and accessibility of healthcare resources. This score considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in the early detection, treatment, and overall well-being of patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system rests on robust primary care. This is the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, and the gateway to early detection through screening and referral. Assessing primary care availability in Bala Cynwyd begins with evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are crucial. A higher ratio of primary care physicians per capita generally suggests better access. However, raw numbers alone don't tell the whole story. We must also consider the distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code, the patient demographics, and the insurance plans accepted. Are there enough primary care physicians accepting Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance plans to serve the diverse population of Bala Cynwyd?

Standout medical practices are those demonstrating excellence in patient care, particularly in the context of lung cancer. These practices often excel in several areas: early detection through advanced imaging techniques (low-dose CT scans), adherence to established screening guidelines, and timely referrals to pulmonologists and oncologists. They might also have dedicated patient navigators to help guide patients through the often-complex healthcare system. Identifying these practices requires a deep dive into patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology. These practices are essential in providing a high-quality standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly vital, especially post-pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. It can also facilitate quicker follow-up appointments and provide remote monitoring capabilities. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and the integration of telehealth platforms within local primary care practices and specialist offices. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for patients' overall well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment. Evaluating mental health resources involves examining the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists in the area, as well as the presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices or oncology centers is a significant advantage.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not a single number but a composite assessment. It would be calculated by weighting the factors discussed above. For example, a higher physician-to-patient ratio might contribute a certain percentage to the score. The presence of standout practices with excellent screening programs and patient navigation would contribute another significant percentage. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources would also factor into the final score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in Bala Cynwyd, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

To assess the 'Lung Cancer Score' for 19004, we would need to conduct a detailed investigation. This would involve collecting data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. We would need to analyze patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditation information. We would also need to examine the insurance plans accepted by local practices to assess accessibility. The final score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Are there disparities in access to care based on income, race, or ethnicity? Addressing these disparities is crucial to ensuring equitable access to high-quality care for all residents of Bala Cynwyd. This requires understanding the demographics of the area and identifying any barriers to care that may exist.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare resources in Bala Cynwyd, specifically for lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. The 'Lung Cancer Score' is a tool to assess the quality and accessibility of care. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

If you are interested in visualizing this data, understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, and identifying potential gaps in care, we invite you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide powerful mapping and visualization tools that can help you analyze healthcare data, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.