19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.41 percent of the residents in 19074 has some form of health insurance. 32.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.29 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 19074 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,317 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 407 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19074. An estimate of 83 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 674 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 91,999 health care providers accessible to residents in 19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 19074, encompassing Norwood, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multifaceted approach. We will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, crucial for early detection and management, and assess the broader landscape of lung cancer care, including specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents and identify potential areas for improvement.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer screening and treatment. In Norwood, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Precise data on this ratio requires access to current, granular datasets, often proprietary to healthcare analytics firms. However, publicly available information, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) data, can offer a general indication of primary care access within Delaware County, where Norwood is located. This data should be reviewed to understand if the area is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are they clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, ensuring access for all residents? The presence of community health centers, which often serve vulnerable populations, is another factor to consider. These centers frequently offer sliding-scale fees and comprehensive services, including preventive care and chronic disease management, which are vital in the fight against lung cancer.

Specialist access, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is paramount for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The proximity of these specialists to Norwood residents is a key factor. Are there pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable driving distance? The availability of these specialists determines the speed of diagnosis and treatment. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer centers, where pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists collaborate, is also a positive indicator. These centers often offer the most comprehensive and coordinated care.

Standout practices in the area can be identified through several means. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer insights into patient satisfaction with physicians and practices. These reviews can highlight practices known for their compassionate care, clear communication, and effective treatment outcomes. Additionally, professional organizations, such as the American Lung Association and the American Society of Clinical Oncology, may provide information on accredited practices and physicians. Examining the research output of local hospitals and practices can also reveal centers of excellence.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its impact on lung cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing physicians to track their progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer patients in Norwood should be assessed. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. The ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine with the patient's electronic health record are all factors to consider.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as individual therapy, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for supporting patients' emotional well-being. The integration of mental health services into the cancer care pathway is also important. Does the local healthcare system offer integrated behavioral health services? Are there oncology social workers available to provide counseling and support? The availability of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

In addition to the availability of mental health services, the awareness of these resources among patients and healthcare providers is also important. Are patients informed about the availability of mental health support? Are healthcare providers trained to recognize and address mental health concerns? The presence of educational materials and support groups specifically designed for lung cancer patients can also be beneficial.

The overall quality of lung cancer care in Norwood is also influenced by the availability of supportive services. These services can include smoking cessation programs, which are essential for preventing lung cancer and helping patients quit smoking. Access to palliative care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, is also crucial. The availability of these supportive services can significantly enhance the overall patient experience.

Finally, the role of hospitals and healthcare systems in the community should be examined. Do the local hospitals have dedicated lung cancer programs? Are they actively involved in lung cancer research? Do they participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer and promote early detection? The involvement of hospitals and healthcare systems can significantly impact the quality of lung cancer care in the area.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Norwood, one needs a tool that can visualize the data and identify patterns. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful way to analyze the data and gain insights. These maps can overlay various data points, such as physician locations, specialist availability, and patient demographics, to create a visual representation of the healthcare landscape. This allows for a more in-depth assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the system.

For a more detailed and visually informative assessment of lung cancer care in Norwood, Pennsylvania, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use their mapping capabilities to see the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas of need, and ultimately make informed decisions about your health.