19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.17 percent of the residents in 19079 has some form of health insurance. 51.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.93 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 19079 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,599 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 407 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19079. An estimate of 94 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,163 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90,410 health care providers accessible to residents in 19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sharon Hill, PA (ZIP Code 19079)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and the overall healthcare landscape within Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19079). This score considers factors relevant to early lung cancer detection, treatment access, and patient support. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and identify areas for potential improvement. The analysis will focus on primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and overall physician-to-patient ratios.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. In Sharon Hill, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health should be consulted to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 19079 ZIP code. This data will serve as a baseline for evaluating access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are equally important. Standout practices demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including proactively offering lung cancer screenings to eligible patients. These practices often have robust patient outreach programs, reminding patients of recommended screenings based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors. They also typically have well-defined referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists for further evaluation and treatment. Identifying these standout practices within Sharon Hill requires a deeper dive. Reviewing patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, and contacting local hospitals and medical societies, can help identify practices known for their proactive approach to lung cancer screening and comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly for patients in areas with limited access to specialists. It can facilitate remote consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists, reducing the need for travel and potentially speeding up the diagnostic process. Telemedicine also allows for convenient follow-up appointments and ongoing monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The adoption rate of telemedicine among PCPs in Sharon Hill is a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the overall integration of telemedicine into primary care practices is essential for a comprehensive score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is an integral part of the Lung Cancer Score. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. This ensures that patients have access to the support they need to cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany a cancer diagnosis. Assessing the availability of these resources, including the proximity of mental health providers and the ease of access to mental health services, is critical.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within the primary care setting, such as on-site therapists or collaborative care models, can significantly improve patient outcomes. This integrated approach fosters a more holistic and patient-centered approach to care. Investigating the extent to which primary care practices in Sharon Hill collaborate with mental health providers is essential for a comprehensive score.

The Lung Cancer Score for Sharon Hill, PA (19079) is a dynamic measure. It is not a static number but a reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape. The score should be continuously updated to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Regular monitoring and analysis are crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents of Sharon Hill have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Sharon Hill, PA (19079) will be determined by analyzing several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices committed to preventative care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a crucial role. This assessment provides a snapshot of the current healthcare environment and highlights areas where improvements are needed to enhance lung cancer care for the residents of Sharon Hill.

For a comprehensive, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sharon Hill, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare infrastructure, helping you to better understand the resources available in your community.