19072, Narberth, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19072, Narberth, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.93 percent of the residents in 19072 has some form of health insurance. 20.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.30 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 19072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,893 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 390 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19072. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,021 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,468 health care providers accessible to residents in 19072, Narberth, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Narberth, PA (ZIP Code 19072)

This analysis aims to evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians and their associated resources within Narberth, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19072), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and patient support. The ultimate goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, though it’s important to understand that such a score is inherently complex and relies on available data, which can be limited. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through lung cancer.

Narberth, a small suburban community, presents a unique environment for healthcare delivery. Its proximity to Philadelphia offers access to specialized medical centers, yet the local primary care infrastructure plays a vital role in early detection and ongoing patient management. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. A favorable physician-to-patient ratio allows for more personalized care, shorter wait times, and increased opportunities for preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. Determining the exact ratio for ZIP code 19072 requires accessing specific datasets, but publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per PCP, could indicate a potential strain on resources and longer wait times for appointments, potentially impacting timely lung cancer screening.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are paramount. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including regular health screenings and patient education, are highly valued. This includes proactive outreach to patients who may be at high risk for lung cancer, such as current or former smokers. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a significant factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, improve care coordination, and enable the tracking of patient health histories, including smoking habits and family history of cancer, which are vital in determining lung cancer risk. Practices utilizing EHRs effectively can also more easily implement and manage lung cancer screening programs.

Identifying standout practices within Narberth requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings and patient reviews. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, research should focus on practices that actively promote preventative care, offer comprehensive health assessments, and demonstrate a patient-centered approach. Patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and health education initiatives are also highly desirable.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages in the context of lung cancer care. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have mobility issues or live a distance from their physician. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists and improve communication between the PCP and other healthcare providers involved in a patient's care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. The "Lung Cancer Score" should therefore reflect the extent to which practices have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their care delivery models.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health services are better equipped to support their patients. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and integrate mental health services into their care plans will contribute positively to a patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" also needs to consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs are essential in preventing the disease and improving patient outcomes. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, will be considered favorably. These programs should be readily accessible and tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should take into account the accessibility of lung cancer screening programs. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals at high risk. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to LDCT screening for eligible patients will be given higher marks. This includes ensuring that patients meet the eligibility criteria, coordinating the screening process, and providing timely follow-up care if abnormalities are detected.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Narberth, PA (ZIP code 19072) requires a multifaceted approach. The score should reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of smoking cessation and lung cancer screening programs. While a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this analysis, the factors discussed above provide a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying practices that are best equipped to support patients facing the challenges of lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Narberth, including the locations of primary care practices and their associated resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the community's healthcare infrastructure. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.