19032, Folcroft, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19032, Folcroft, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.40 percent of the residents in 19032 has some form of health insurance. 44.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.16 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 19032 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,936 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19032. An estimate of 32 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 679 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,785 health care providers accessible to residents in 19032, Folcroft, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Folcroft, PA (ZIP Code 19032)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) and healthcare resources available within the Folcroft, PA (ZIP Code 19032) area. The LCS is a multifaceted evaluation, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and comprehensive patient care in the context of lung cancer. The analysis focuses on physician availability, practice capabilities, and the integration of supportive services, all critical components in improving patient outcomes.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy is access to primary care. In Folcroft, the availability of PCPs forms the first layer of our LCS assessment. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally translates to more readily available appointments, more time for detailed patient evaluations, and potentially, a greater focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratios within 19032 is crucial. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association can provide this valuable insight.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the LCS. We must examine the capabilities of these practices. Do they offer on-site X-ray facilities or have strong referral networks to radiology centers for chest imaging? Are they equipped to perform or readily facilitate low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, the primary screening tool for lung cancer? Practices that proactively address these needs score higher. Furthermore, a practice’s commitment to patient education is paramount. Are patients informed about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and smoking cessation programs? A practice that actively promotes these programs contributes significantly to a higher LCS.

Standout practices within the Folcroft area deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer prevention and early detection is vital. This involves looking beyond the basics. Does a practice have a dedicated care coordinator for patients undergoing lung cancer screening or treatment? Do they participate in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer? Do they have a strong track record of patient satisfaction and positive outcomes? Practices exhibiting these qualities are likely to have a positive impact on the overall LCS.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine provides a valuable avenue for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to healthcare. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate discussions about screening results, medication management, and supportive care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, enhance the LCS.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being, significantly improving the LCS. This could include on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health organizations, or readily available referral pathways.

The effectiveness of a practice's referral network also influences the LCS. PCPs must have established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and other specialists involved in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. A strong referral network ensures that patients receive timely and appropriate care from specialists when needed. The ease and speed with which a PCP can refer a patient to a specialist directly affects the patient's overall experience and the likelihood of a positive outcome.

The overall LCS for Folcroft, PA, is a composite score, considering all the factors discussed above. A high score reflects a community with readily available primary care, practices equipped for lung cancer screening and management, a strong emphasis on patient education and mental health support, and robust referral networks. A lower score might indicate challenges in access to care, limited screening capabilities, or a lack of supportive services.

Ultimately, improving the LCS requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies must work together to address any identified gaps in care. This might involve increasing the number of PCPs in the area, expanding screening capabilities, promoting patient education, and enhancing mental health support services.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Folcroft, PA, and gain a deeper understanding of the availability of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of the LCS and identifying areas for improvement.