19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 19027 has some form of health insurance. 30.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.72 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 19027 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19027. An estimate of 33 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,588 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37,440 health care providers accessible to residents in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Elkins Park, PA (ZIP Code 19027)

Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, nestled in Montgomery County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, especially regarding lung cancer care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care within the 19027 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for the area. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals seeking lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection, which hinges on regular screenings, often initiated and managed by PCPs. The availability of PCPs in Elkins Park is a crucial factor. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, it is essential to assess the overall density of PCPs in the area. A higher concentration of PCPs generally translates to easier access to appointments, routine checkups, and referrals for specialized care, including pulmonologists and oncologists. Lower ratios, conversely, can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses.

Elkins Park, being a relatively affluent suburban community, likely benefits from a higher-than-average physician-to-patient ratio compared to underserved areas. However, this is a broad generalization. Specific data on the exact ratio within the 19027 ZIP code is necessary for a truly accurate assessment. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer valuable insights into this critical metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of local practices are paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, physician experience, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as those connected to major hospitals in the Philadelphia area, often have access to cutting-edge technology and a wider network of specialists. These affiliations can significantly enhance the 'Lung Cancer Score' by providing access to advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and clinical trials.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, and its adoption rate within the 19027 ZIP code is a key indicator of accessibility. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists can significantly improve the overall 'Lung Cancer Score'. Practices offering telehealth options, especially for follow-up appointments and discussing test results, receive a boost in the ranking.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often involve significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare ecosystem is therefore crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals to qualified therapists and counselors, contribute positively to the overall 'Lung Cancer Score'. Integrated mental health support can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This includes access to support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Elkins Park, PA (19027) is a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed above. A high score indicates excellent access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care. The specific score is determined by weighting these factors based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to advanced diagnostic tools might be weighted more heavily than the availability of support groups.

To further enhance the 'Lung Cancer Score', local healthcare providers should prioritize several areas. Increasing the number of PCPs in the area, particularly those accepting new patients, is crucial. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, especially for follow-up appointments and specialist consultations, can improve accessibility. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices or establishing strong referral networks is also essential. Finally, promoting lung cancer screening programs and raising awareness about the importance of early detection are critical steps.

The overall assessment also considers the presence of specialized lung cancer centers within a reasonable travel distance. Proximity to major hospitals with dedicated pulmonology and oncology departments significantly impacts the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Access to specialized care, including advanced treatment options such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, is a critical factor in determining the overall quality of care.

Evaluating the 'Lung Cancer Score' requires a multi-faceted approach. Data from various sources, including public health agencies, healthcare providers, and patient reviews, must be analyzed. This analysis should include data on physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialized care. The resulting score provides a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in Elkins Park.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' is not static; it can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure the score accurately reflects the current state of care. This ongoing evaluation allows for continuous improvement and helps to identify areas where resources and support are most needed.

Understanding the healthcare landscape within the 19027 ZIP code is essential for individuals seeking lung cancer care. The 'Lung Cancer Score' provides a valuable framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of care, helping patients make informed decisions about their health.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elkins Park and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographical representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more intuitive and comprehensive assessment of the area's healthcare accessibility.