19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.51 percent of the residents in 19082 has some form of health insurance. 46.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.33 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 19082 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 408 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19082. An estimate of 98 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93,676 health care providers accessible to residents in 19082, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.

The analysis that follows assesses the landscape of lung cancer care, with a focus on primary care access, within the ZIP code 19082, encompassing Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers several key factors: physician availability, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care to individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational element of healthcare access. Within 19082, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of early detection and management of lung cancer. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and interventions. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and a potentially more proactive approach to patient care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 19082 requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or local healthcare networks. This data would reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. This baseline understanding is essential to assess the overall health of the primary care system.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Upper Darby requires a deeper dive into their reputations, accreditations, and patient outcomes. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, utilizing advanced screening techniques like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, are highly valuable. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer comprehensive support services, including smoking cessation programs and patient navigation, are also noteworthy. Analyzing patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare professionals, and researching practice accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can help identify these exemplary practices.

The adoption of telemedicine has dramatically altered the healthcare landscape, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages in the context of lung cancer care. It can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients' symptoms. In 19082, the extent to which primary care practices have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their adaptability and commitment to patient convenience. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide continuous care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, contacting practices directly to inquire about their virtual care offerings, and evaluating patient feedback regarding their experiences with telemedicine services.

Lung cancer, as a life-altering diagnosis, often carries significant emotional and psychological burdens. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. Primary care practices in 19082 that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support patients through the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of these resources involves investigating practice websites, contacting practices to inquire about their mental health services, and exploring local community resources such as support groups and counseling centers. The integration of mental health services into primary care is crucial to address the multifaceted needs of lung cancer patients.

Evaluating the primary care landscape in 19082 also requires an understanding of the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes examining the presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance, such as hospitals or cancer centers equipped with pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialized services are critical for patients who require advanced care. Furthermore, exploring the availability of community resources, such as support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs, can provide additional support for patients and their families.

In summary, the 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis for doctors in ZIP code 19082 and primary care availability in Upper Darby involves a multi-faceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices with a focus on early detection and comprehensive care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality of care and the accessibility of services for individuals diagnosed with or at risk of lung cancer. A comprehensive understanding of these elements is essential for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve lung cancer outcomes in the Upper Darby community.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice locations, and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed, geographically-based analysis of healthcare resources in the 19082 area.