19122, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19122, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 19122 has some form of health insurance. 38.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.58 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 19122 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19122. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,994 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,758 health care providers accessible to residents in 19122, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 19122 & Philadelphia Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 19122 and the broader context of primary care availability in Philadelphia requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll examine key indicators, from physician density to mental health support, to construct a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing this challenging diagnosis. This analysis will then provide a framework for understanding the current state and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care infrastructure. In Philadelphia, and specifically within 19122, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts early detection and timely referrals. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, as individuals may struggle to secure appointments for routine screenings or to address concerning symptoms. Conversely, a high ratio, while seemingly positive, might indicate a saturation of providers, potentially leading to competition and variable quality of care. The ideal scenario involves a balanced ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling and a commitment to preventative medicine.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 19122, and indeed across Philadelphia, is a critical metric. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), provides insights into the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents. Comparing this ratio to national averages, or to benchmarks within other similarly populated urban areas, allows for a relative assessment of access. A lower ratio in 19122, when compared to the city average, might suggest a need for targeted initiatives to improve access in that specific area. This could involve incentivizing the establishment of new practices or supporting existing ones to expand their capacity.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the practices themselves. Standout practices within 19122, for example, might be those that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, utilizing low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. They might also demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources on smoking cessation and early warning signs of the disease. These practices often have well-established referral networks to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring advanced care. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a model for others to emulate.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, manage medication refills remotely, and offer educational materials online. The adoption rate of telemedicine within 19122, and across Philadelphia, needs to be evaluated. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered and the patient satisfaction levels associated with them provides a more comprehensive understanding of its impact.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic well-being. This might involve having on-site therapists, providing referrals to mental health specialists, or offering support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is a critical aspect of the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, isn't a single number but a composite metric. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors is weighted based on its relative importance, with access to care and quality of care typically receiving the highest weights. The score can be calculated for 19122, and for different areas across Philadelphia, allowing for comparisons and identification of areas with the greatest need.

The impact of social determinants of health also plays a critical role. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence lung cancer outcomes. Areas with high rates of poverty, limited access to transportation, and low health literacy may experience poorer outcomes, even with adequate medical resources. The Lung Cancer Score needs to consider these factors, adjusting the weighting of the metrics to account for the unique challenges faced by different communities.

Data collection and analysis are essential for constructing a meaningful Lung Cancer Score. This involves gathering information from various sources, including publicly available data from government agencies, surveys of primary care practices, and patient feedback. The data must be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to identify trends, correlations, and areas for improvement. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to track the impact of interventions.

The ultimate goal of the Lung Cancer Score is to improve the lives of individuals affected by this disease. By providing a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, the score can help to identify gaps in care, inform policy decisions, and guide the allocation of resources. It can also empower patients to make informed choices about their healthcare, helping them to find the best possible care within their community.

In summary, the Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic and multifaceted metric that reflects the complex interplay of factors influencing lung cancer care. It requires a commitment to data-driven analysis, patient-centered care, and a holistic approach to well-being. The score should be viewed as a tool for continuous improvement, guiding efforts to enhance access, quality, and outcomes for all individuals affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape in Philadelphia, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization. Visit CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and to identify opportunities for improvement in lung cancer care.