19124, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19124, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 19124 has some form of health insurance. 58.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.73 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 19124 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23,245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19124. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,335 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,094 health care providers accessible to residents in 19124, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Philadelphia Perspective (ZIP Code 19124 & Primary Care Availability)

Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and innovation, faces a significant challenge in the realm of healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within the city, with a specific focus on ZIP Code 19124, and assesses how these factors impact the potential for early detection and effective treatment of this devastating disease. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced “Lung Cancer Score” perspective, considering crucial elements like physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all critical components of a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any successful lung cancer strategy lies in accessible and robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the crucial first line of defense. They are the gatekeepers to screening, offering guidance on risk factors, ordering imaging, and making referrals to specialists. A shortage of PCPs, or a concentration of them in certain areas, can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

In ZIP Code 19124, the situation requires close scrutiny. This area, like many in Philadelphia, may experience variations in primary care access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it harder for patients to receive timely care. This can be a significant impediment to early detection of lung cancer, as symptoms may be dismissed or overlooked due to the pressures on the healthcare system.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This involves assessing the practices themselves. Are the practices patient-centered, offering convenient hours and comprehensive services? Do they actively promote preventative screenings, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals? Are they equipped to manage the complex needs of patients with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which increases the risk of lung cancer? Identifying standout practices within 19124 that excel in these areas is vital. These practices often serve as models, demonstrating best practices that can be replicated across the city.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely, offers a potential solution to some of the access challenges. Its adoption rate among primary care practices in Philadelphia is a key indicator. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility issues. It can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide timely and convenient care, which can be especially beneficial for lung cancer patients.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. Patients face not only the physical challenges of the disease but also the psychological burden of fear, anxiety, and depression. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is therefore a crucial component of a holistic approach. Practices that offer on-site counseling, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, are better equipped to support their patients. This support can improve patient outcomes, as it helps them cope with the emotional challenges of the disease and adhere to their treatment plans.

Primary care availability across the entire city of Philadelphia presents a broader picture. The city’s overall physician-to-patient ratio, and its distribution across different neighborhoods, is a crucial factor. Areas with limited access to PCPs may experience disparities in lung cancer outcomes. Identifying these disparities is the first step toward addressing them. Initiatives to attract and retain primary care physicians in underserved areas, such as loan forgiveness programs and incentives for practice development, are essential.

Furthermore, the city's healthcare system must address the social determinants of health. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and exposure to environmental hazards can significantly impact lung cancer risk and outcomes. Primary care practices can play a vital role in addressing these issues, by connecting patients with social services and advocating for policies that improve community health.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Philadelphia, and specifically for ZIP Code 19124, is not a simple number. It's a complex assessment that considers multiple factors. It reflects the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care they provide, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. It also takes into account the broader context of the city's healthcare system, including disparities in access and the impact of social determinants of health.

A low score would indicate significant challenges in the primary care landscape, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, poorer treatment outcomes, and increased mortality rates. A high score, on the other hand, would reflect a robust and accessible primary care system, where patients have timely access to screenings, comprehensive care, and mental health support.

Ultimately, improving the “Lung Cancer Score” requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, policymakers, community organizations, and patients must work together to strengthen the primary care system, promote early detection, and provide comprehensive support for individuals affected by this devastating disease. This involves addressing the root causes of health disparities, investing in preventative care, and ensuring that all Philadelphians have access to the care they need.

To visualize the distribution of primary care resources, identify areas of need, and gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" in Philadelphia, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data and making informed decisions about how to improve the health and well-being of the community.