19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.38 percent of the residents in 19121 has some form of health insurance. 51.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.00 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 19121 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,915 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19121. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,426 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 105,106 health care providers accessible to residents in 19121, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19121) Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the primary care landscape within Philadelphia's 19121 ZIP code, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses regarding lung cancer care accessibility and support. The assessment considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine integration, and availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the area's capacity to address the multifaceted needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is paramount. This requires a proactive primary care system capable of identifying at-risk patients, educating them about the benefits of screening, and facilitating timely referrals to specialists. The 19121 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Olney and Feltonville, presents a unique demographic profile that warrants careful consideration. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural awareness of health issues significantly impact healthcare utilization and screening rates.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a critical indicator of access. An area with a limited number of primary care physicians relative to the population may experience longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely interventions. Data from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and the Pennsylvania Medical Society would be essential to ascertain the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 19121. This data should be compared to the citywide and national averages to determine if the area faces a shortage of primary care providers. Areas with lower ratios would likely benefit from initiatives that attract and retain physicians, such as loan repayment programs and community-based training opportunities.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices matters. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and proactive screening initiatives, are more likely to improve lung cancer outcomes. Identifying standout practices within 19121 requires examining their performance metrics. This would involve assessing their rates of screening adherence, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of comprehensive services, such as on-site diagnostic testing and chronic disease management programs. The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and other accreditation bodies offer valuable insights into practice quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare delivery, especially in underserved communities. Its ability to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care is particularly relevant in the context of lung cancer. Telemedicine platforms can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The degree of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 19121 should be evaluated. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies and offer virtual care options are likely to enhance patient convenience and improve overall care coordination.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The availability of mental health resources is crucial for supporting patients through the difficult journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Primary care practices should integrate mental health services into their care models. This may involve on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or referrals to specialized support groups. Assessing the availability of these resources within 19121 and the extent to which primary care practices facilitate access to them is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of mental health professionals who are culturally competent and sensitive to the unique needs of the community.

Furthermore, the integration of care coordination is critical. This involves streamlining communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Effective care coordination ensures that patients receive seamless, well-coordinated care, reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient outcomes. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies to facilitate care coordination are likely to provide a higher level of service.

The analysis would also consider the presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) within 19121. These centers often serve as a crucial safety net for underserved populations, providing comprehensive primary care services, including preventive screenings and chronic disease management. The availability of these resources and their capacity to address the specific needs of the local population are essential.

Finally, patient education and empowerment are vital components of effective lung cancer care. Primary care practices should actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health. This includes educating patients about the risks of smoking, the benefits of screening, and the importance of adhering to treatment plans. Practices that prioritize patient education and empowerment are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

In conclusion, the primary care landscape within the 19121 ZIP code presents a complex picture. A comprehensive analysis requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and care coordination efforts. This assessment should inform strategies to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and address the specific needs of individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

To gain a visual and spatial understanding of the primary care landscape in 19121 and across Philadelphia, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource distribution, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, helping you to identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement.