19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 19034 has some form of health insurance. 24.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.32 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 19034 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,702 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19034. An estimate of 42 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 38,778 health care providers accessible to residents in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fort Washington, PA (ZIP Code 19034)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of care for lung cancer patients within ZIP code 19034 (Fort Washington, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and related resources. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” perspective, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support for individuals at risk or diagnosed with this disease. The analysis considers the broader healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and proactive primary care. Fort Washington, like many suburban areas, likely experiences a variable physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall density of PCPs is a critical factor. A higher ratio, reflecting fewer patients per physician, generally translates to more available appointment slots and a greater likelihood of timely screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and other sources needs to be consulted to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of individual practices are paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines (e.g., for individuals with a history of smoking), the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., low-dose CT scans), and the seamlessness of referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, providing clear information about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, are also highly valued. Reviews from patients, as well as the practice's reputation within the medical community, offer valuable insights.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption within Fort Washington's primary care landscape significantly impacts the “Lung Cancer Score.” Telemedicine can enhance access to care for patients who have mobility issues, live far from a clinic, or have transportation limitations. It also provides a convenient option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, will contribute to a higher score. The degree to which these services are covered by insurance providers is also a significant factor.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The integration of mental health resources within primary care is therefore crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, or have established partnerships with behavioral health providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This includes addressing the psychological impact of the disease, managing anxiety and depression, and providing support for patients and their families. The availability of these resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, are critical components of a high “Lung Cancer Score.”

The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs within the community is another positive factor. These programs, often offered by hospitals or specialized clinics, target high-risk individuals and provide convenient access to screening services. Their existence, coupled with the proactive efforts of PCPs to identify and refer at-risk patients, significantly improves the chances of early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. The availability of smoking cessation programs, both within primary care practices and in the wider community, is also an essential component of a comprehensive lung cancer prevention strategy.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Fort Washington (ZIP code 19034) is not a single, definitive number. Instead, it is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. A high score would reflect a strong PCP-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices committed to early detection and comprehensive care, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of dedicated screening programs and smoking cessation resources. Conversely, a lower score would indicate potential gaps in these areas, highlighting areas for improvement and opportunities for healthcare providers to enhance their services.

To further refine this analysis and create a more precise “Lung Cancer Score,” a comprehensive data collection and analysis process is necessary. This would involve gathering information on physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the services offered by individual practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption rates, and mapping the availability of mental health resources and screening programs. This data would be used to create a more granular picture of the healthcare landscape within Fort Washington.

The final “Lung Cancer Score” would provide valuable information for both patients and healthcare providers. Patients could use this information to make informed decisions about their healthcare, selecting practices that align with their individual needs and preferences. Healthcare providers could use the score to identify areas for improvement, benchmark their performance against other practices, and develop strategies to enhance the quality and accessibility of their services. The goal is to foster a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive care, and the overall well-being of individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

To visualize and understand the geographic distribution of these healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialist clinics, hospitals, and support services, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping capabilities that allow you to explore the healthcare landscape in detail, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence the “Lung Cancer Score” in Fort Washington and beyond.