19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.13 percent of the residents in 19129 has some form of health insurance. 28.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.82 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 19129 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,925 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19129. An estimate of 107 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,548 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104,626 health care providers accessible to residents in 19129, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19129) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within the 19129 ZIP code of Philadelphia, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, a crucial entry point for early detection and management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing the effectiveness of lung cancer screening and treatment. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the care environment for individuals at risk.

The 19129 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Roxborough and Manayunk, presents a unique demographic profile. Its relatively older population, coupled with a history of industrial activity, may contribute to a higher prevalence of lung cancer risk factors. This underscores the importance of accessible and proactive primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental step. While precise figures fluctuate, data suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians in certain areas of Philadelphia. This shortage can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and overall diminished access to timely interventions.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of individual practices are paramount. Some practices in the 19129 area may distinguish themselves through proactive screening programs, utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. These practices might also have robust referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, streamlining the patient journey from suspicion to diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, practices lacking such infrastructure might present barriers to timely care. Investigating the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening is critical to determining the effectiveness of the care available.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly impact lung cancer care, particularly in areas with limited access to in-person appointments. Telehealth platforms can facilitate virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The adoption rate of telemedicine within primary care practices in 19129 is a key indicator of accessibility. Practices that have embraced telehealth can potentially serve a wider patient base, reduce travel burdens, and improve the overall efficiency of care delivery. The availability of virtual options can be especially beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is an integral component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or offer referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Examining the availability of on-site therapists, psychiatrists, or partnerships with mental health organizations is crucial. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes and quality of life throughout the treatment process.

The availability of specialized resources is another critical factor. Primary care practices should ideally be linked to comprehensive cancer centers equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. Proximity to these centers, as well as the ease of referral, significantly impacts the patient's ability to access cutting-edge care. The presence of dedicated lung cancer screening programs, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and access to clinical trials are all indicators of a robust care environment.

The effectiveness of lung cancer screening initiatives is also heavily influenced by patient education and awareness. Primary care practices play a vital role in educating patients about risk factors, screening guidelines, and the importance of early detection. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide resources for quitting contribute significantly to reducing the incidence of lung cancer. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and counseling services is another factor to consider.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors within the 19129 ZIP code can impact the quality of care. Disparities in access to healthcare, insurance coverage, and transportation can create barriers to timely screening and treatment. Practices that actively address these disparities through initiatives like sliding-scale fees, transportation assistance, and culturally sensitive care demonstrate a commitment to equitable healthcare delivery.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for primary care in 19129 is a composite measure, incorporating all these factors. It's not a simple numerical ranking but a qualitative assessment that considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of evidence-based practices, the availability of telemedicine and mental health resources, the proximity to specialized care, and the practice's commitment to patient education and addressing socioeconomic barriers.

Evaluating the primary care landscape in the 19129 area requires a deep dive into individual practice characteristics. This involves examining their screening protocols, referral pathways, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support systems. It also involves understanding the practice's commitment to patient education, addressing socioeconomic disparities, and providing access to specialized resources.

Ultimately, the goal is to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the care environment and highlight opportunities for improvement. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of lung cancer care in the 19129 ZIP code, emphasizing the importance of accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered primary care.

To visualize the specific locations of primary care practices in the 19129 area, including their proximity to hospitals, cancer centers, and other resources, and to understand the broader context of healthcare access within Philadelphia, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps can help you identify the practices that best meet your individual needs and risk factors.