19115, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19115, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.14 percent of the residents in 19115 has some form of health insurance. 40.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.58 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 19115 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,346 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 516 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19115. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,299 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,779 health care providers accessible to residents in 19115, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19115) & Primary Care Access

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within the 19115 ZIP code of Philadelphia, and its relationship to broader primary care availability in the city, requires a nuanced understanding of several interconnected factors. A "Lung Cancer Score," while not a formal metric, can be constructed to assess the quality and accessibility of care, encompassing physician availability, technological integration, and the provision of holistic support. This analysis will delve into these elements, painting a picture of the current state and identifying areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is the accessibility of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In the context of Philadelphia, and specifically within 19115, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial early detection and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio, suggesting a more favorable patient-to-doctor balance, can facilitate proactive screening and timely interventions. Data from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, combined with information from insurance providers and healthcare networks, can provide a granular view of PCP availability within 19115. This data is dynamic, influenced by factors such as physician retirement, relocation, and the influx of new residents.

Primary care's role extends beyond initial diagnosis. PCPs are instrumental in risk assessment, patient education, and coordinating referrals to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The efficiency of this referral process is a key component of the "Lung Cancer Score." Delays in referral can negatively impact patient outcomes. This efficiency is influenced by the relationships between PCPs and specialists, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for seamless information exchange, and the availability of readily accessible diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scans and PET scans.

Within the 19115 ZIP code, the presence of standout primary care practices can significantly influence the overall "Lung Cancer Score." These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including robust smoking cessation programs, regular lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals, and a patient-centered approach to care. Identifying these practices involves evaluating their adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their patient satisfaction scores, and their integration of technology to enhance patient communication and care coordination. The presence of board-certified specialists and the availability of on-site diagnostic services can further elevate a practice's standing.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Telehealth consultations can facilitate virtual follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education sessions. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those used to track vital signs or medication adherence, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine. Assessing telemedicine adoption within 19115 involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of secure communication platforms, and the integration of telehealth into the practice's overall care model.

Beyond the purely clinical aspects of care, the availability of mental health resources plays a critical role in the "Lung Cancer Score." A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices, or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals, is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer-related emotional distress. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is also influenced by the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs are crucial for prevention and improving patient outcomes. These programs should include access to counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and other medications proven to aid in quitting smoking. The integration of smoking cessation programs into primary care practices, and the availability of these programs within the community, are important indicators of a strong "Lung Cancer Score."

The broader context of primary care availability within Philadelphia significantly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score" for 19115. The overall health of the city's healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of specialists, diagnostic services, and hospitals, influences the ability of patients in 19115 to access timely and comprehensive care. Addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring equitable access to care across all neighborhoods is a crucial step in improving the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the city. This requires targeted interventions to address social determinants of health, such as poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and inadequate housing, which can significantly impact health outcomes.

Furthermore, the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives can positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score." These programs can raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, promote early detection through screening, and provide support to patients and their families. The involvement of community organizations, faith-based institutions, and local healthcare providers is essential for the success of these initiatives.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for 19115 and its connection to primary care availability in Philadelphia requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health and smoking cessation resources. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and holistic patient support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape within 19115 and Philadelphia, and to identify areas with high and low access to care, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive platform to visualize physician density, primary care availability, and other relevant data points. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.**