19023, Darby, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19023, Darby, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.11 percent of the residents in 19023 has some form of health insurance. 48.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.40 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 19023 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,912 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19023. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,925 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,085 health care providers accessible to residents in 19023, Darby, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Darby, PA (ZIP Code 19023)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of primary care resources and related factors impacting lung cancer care within Darby, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19023). The objective is to assess the accessibility and quality of care, focusing on elements relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This analysis will consider physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, culminating in a recommendation for utilizing advanced mapping tools for further investigation.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and qualified primary care physicians. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in 19023 reveals a critical aspect of care availability. While precise figures fluctuate, this area historically demonstrates a lower-than-average physician density compared to national benchmarks. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early interventions. The impact is magnified for individuals with limited transportation options or those facing socioeconomic challenges, which are factors prevalent within the Darby community. A lower physician-to-patient ratio necessitates a focus on optimizing existing resources and exploring alternative care models.

Several primary care practices operate within or near 19023. Assessing these practices involves evaluating their specific strengths. Some practices may distinguish themselves through their proactive approach to preventative care, including robust lung cancer screening programs. These programs may involve actively identifying high-risk patients, such as smokers or those with a family history of lung cancer, and offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Other practices might excel in patient communication, ensuring clear and accessible information about lung cancer risks, symptoms, and treatment options. Evaluating the availability of multilingual staff is also crucial, considering the diverse demographics of Darby.

Telemedicine represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly in areas with limited physician availability. The adoption of telemedicine platforms by primary care practices in 19023 is an important factor to consider. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations. This can be especially beneficial for patients who have mobility limitations or those who find it difficult to travel to a clinic. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platforms, directly impacts the quality of care available.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is a crucial element of comprehensive care. Ideally, practices should offer access to mental health professionals, either through on-site services or referrals to external providers. This could include psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed clinical social workers. Integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the ability of practices to coordinate care with specialists, such as oncologists and pulmonologists, is vital for a holistic approach.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in 19023 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While physician availability may pose a challenge, practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, telemedicine integration, and mental health support are likely to provide a higher quality of care. The presence of proactive screening programs, clear patient communication, and readily available mental health resources contribute to a more supportive and effective care environment. The effectiveness of these programs, however, is also influenced by the socioeconomic factors present in the Darby community.

To gain a more granular understanding of the landscape of lung cancer care in 19023, including the precise locations of practices, their specific services, and the demographics of the patient population, further investigation is recommended. Mapping tools can be invaluable in this process. By visualizing the distribution of primary care providers, overlaying socioeconomic data, and identifying areas with limited access to care, these tools can help to pinpoint areas where resources are needed most.

For a detailed, data-driven analysis of primary care availability, practice characteristics, and related factors impacting lung cancer care in Darby, PA (19023), we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to explore the distribution of healthcare resources, identify underserved areas, and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.