19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 19033 has some form of health insurance. 22.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.25 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 19033 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19033. An estimate of 40 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,018 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 19033 and Folsom Primary Care

Evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within the 19033 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability in Folsom necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area, ultimately informing patients and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection and prompt intervention. This, in turn, is heavily influenced by the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Folsom, as the broader geographic area encompassing 19033, needs to be assessed for its PCP-to-patient ratio. A low ratio can create significant bottlenecks, delaying crucial screenings and referrals. This can translate into late-stage diagnoses, impacting survival rates and treatment efficacy. Data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within Folsom, alongside the overall population, is essential for calculating this ratio. Public health organizations and local medical societies often provide this type of data.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs across Folsom is also critical. Are there underserved areas with limited access to care? Are there geographic barriers that hinder patient access, such as inadequate public transportation or long travel distances? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer screening and treatment. Furthermore, understanding the demographics of the patient population within Folsom is important to identify potential health disparities that might exist.

Within the 19033 ZIP code itself, a more granular analysis is required. Identifying the specific practices operating within this area is a key step. This involves researching the types of services offered by each practice, including the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as X-ray machines, and the ability to perform basic pulmonary function tests. Such proximity to diagnostic capabilities can streamline the screening process and reduce the time to diagnosis.

A critical aspect of this analysis is evaluating the quality of care provided by these practices. This involves examining metrics such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, and the referral patterns of PCPs. Do they consistently refer patients with concerning symptoms for further evaluation? Do they actively participate in continuing medical education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer care? Publicly available data, such as physician profiles and patient reviews, can provide insights into these aspects.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden on the healthcare system. Assessing the extent to which practices in 19033 utilize telemedicine platforms is therefore essential. This also includes evaluating the availability of remote monitoring devices that can help patients manage their symptoms and track their progress from the comfort of their homes.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are crucial for supporting patients through the emotional and psychological challenges associated with a diagnosis. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services within the 19033 ZIP code and Folsom. Do PCPs have access to mental health specialists who can provide support to patients experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns? Are there support groups or counseling services available specifically for lung cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Identifying standout practices within 19033 is a crucial goal. This involves recognizing those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. These practices might have higher patient satisfaction scores, a proactive approach to screening, a strong emphasis on patient education, and a multidisciplinary team approach. They may also be early adopters of telemedicine and other innovative technologies. Recognizing these practices can serve as a model for others and provide patients with valuable information when choosing a PCP.

The analysis should also evaluate the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of 19033. This includes assessing the proximity to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The ability to access these specialists quickly and efficiently is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. Factors such as the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as PET scans, and access to clinical trials should also be considered.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education resources. Are there educational materials available in multiple languages? Are patients provided with clear and concise information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects? Patient education is a key component of empowering patients to actively participate in their care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 19033 and Folsom would be a composite measure, incorporating all of the factors discussed above. This score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, allowing for informed decision-making by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would also highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the PCP-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, and improving access to mental health resources.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within the 19033 ZIP code and Folsom, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive visualizations can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, helping you identify patterns and trends that might otherwise be missed.