19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.34 percent of the residents in 19021 has some form of health insurance. 37.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.02 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 19021 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19021. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,999 health care providers accessible to residents in 19021, Croydon, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on assessing the quality of lung cancer care and the availability of primary care within the ZIP code 19021 (Croydon, Pennsylvania), with a specific emphasis on factors impacting patient outcomes. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. It does not provide a numerical "Lung Cancer Score" but instead offers a qualitative assessment of the current landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the availability of skilled physicians. Within 19021, the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical factor. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data on this specific ratio within 19021 requires detailed local research, including analysis of insurance provider networks and patient demographics. However, the broader Bucks County area, which encompasses Croydon, should be evaluated for these data points.

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is equally important. The proximity of these specialists to the Croydon community influences the speed and efficiency of referrals and consultations. The availability of these specialists, and their associated support staff (nurses, medical assistants, etc.), significantly impacts the quality of care. Analyzing the concentration of specialists in nearby hospitals and medical centers is crucial.

Practice characteristics play a significant role in shaping the patient experience. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors like the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information sharing, the provision of patient education materials, and the implementation of care coordination programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments. The availability of these resources within the area should be carefully assessed.

Telemedicine adoption is another key consideration. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered and the insurance coverage for these services, should be evaluated.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients battling lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is crucial. The integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system, including the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically for cancer patients, is an important factor.

The availability of supportive services, such as smoking cessation programs, is also essential. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing patients with access to resources that help them quit smoking can improve their chances of survival and overall well-being. The effectiveness of these programs, including their success rates and the availability of medication-assisted treatment, should be assessed.

Evaluating the quality of care also involves assessing the performance of local hospitals and medical centers. This includes analyzing their lung cancer screening rates, the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment, and the patient survival rates. Publicly available data from sources like the National Cancer Institute and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services can provide valuable insights.

Primary care availability in Croydon is a crucial element. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The ability to secure a timely appointment with a PCP, and the PCP's ability to recognize and refer patients with potential lung cancer symptoms, is critical for early detection. The availability of after-hours and weekend care options can also impact patient access.

The integration of palliative care services is another important factor. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The availability of palliative care specialists and services, including pain management and emotional support, can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

The presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives also contributes to the overall quality of care. These programs can raise awareness about lung cancer, promote early detection, and provide patients with access to resources and support. Assessing the scope and effectiveness of these programs is an important aspect of the analysis.

The analysis should also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may face barriers to accessing care, such as lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, and limited access to healthy food. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Croydon.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of any local initiatives or programs designed to improve lung cancer care. This could include collaborations between hospitals and community organizations, the implementation of new screening programs, or the development of innovative treatment approaches.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Croydon (19021) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, supportive services, hospital performance, and community outreach programs. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness and to inform strategies for improving patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Croydon, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and informative way to visualize this data, providing a clearer picture of the healthcare environment.