19083, Havertown, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19083, Havertown, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.53 percent of the residents in 19083 has some form of health insurance. 25.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.84 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 19083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,623 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 408 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19083. An estimate of 98 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,041 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 92,407 health care providers accessible to residents in 19083, Havertown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 19083, specifically focusing on Havertown, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This involves evaluating the available medical resources, physician accessibility, and the overall quality of care, particularly concerning early detection, treatment, and patient support. The ultimate goal is to assess the preparedness of the local healthcare infrastructure to effectively combat lung cancer.

A crucial element in this assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Havertown, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as the initial gateway to lung cancer screening and diagnosis. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, potentially hindering early detection. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better accessibility, allowing for timely screenings and referrals to specialists. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services or state medical boards can provide estimates of PCP density in the area. This data, however, needs to be interpreted cautiously, as it doesn't fully capture factors like physician specialization or practice size.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Outstanding practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including regular screenings for at-risk individuals. They may have established protocols for identifying patients with a high risk of lung cancer based on factors like smoking history, exposure to environmental hazards, and family history. These practices typically employ electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient tracking of patient data and adherence to screening guidelines. Identifying these standout practices involves scrutinizing online reviews, patient testimonials, and potentially, analyzing publicly available quality metrics.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical factor. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving these specialists in collaboration with surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices in Havertown and their ability to provide timely consultations and treatment are essential for positive patient outcomes. Assessing the specialist-to-patient ratio, the wait times for appointments, and the availability of advanced treatment options, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapies, are all vital components of the analysis.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients, and provide follow-up care can significantly improve access to healthcare, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices in Havertown offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are critical for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease, the side effects of treatment, and the uncertainty of the future can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health services in Havertown, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. It should also assess the integration of mental health care into the overall cancer care pathway, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need throughout their journey.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and cancer support groups. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access financial assistance. Cancer support groups provide a forum for patients to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, offering emotional support and practical advice. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for lung cancer patients.

Specific practice evaluations should include looking at the presence of accredited cancer centers within a reasonable distance of Havertown. These centers often provide comprehensive care, including access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options. The analysis should also consider the availability of smoking cessation programs, which can play a vital role in preventing lung cancer and improving the outcomes for those who are diagnosed.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in Havertown should be a comprehensive evaluation, considering not only the availability of medical resources but also the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the support provided to patients. This analysis must be dynamic, acknowledging that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, treatment options, and patient needs.

The final “Lung Cancer Score” for Havertown would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It should incorporate data from multiple sources, including publicly available data, patient reviews, and expert opinions. The score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, allowing residents to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This score should serve as a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve lung cancer care in the community.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to analyze and understand the spatial relationships within the healthcare ecosystem. They can help identify areas with limited access to care, highlight disparities in resources, and inform strategic planning to improve healthcare outcomes in Havertown and beyond.