19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.46 percent of the residents in 19135 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.19 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 19135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,584 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19135. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,379 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101,532 health care providers accessible to residents in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 19135 and Philadelphia Primary Care**

This analysis examines the landscape of primary care physicians in ZIP code 19135, Philadelphia, with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in delivering comprehensive care. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall preparedness of the primary care infrastructure in this area to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients. They play a crucial role in screening, risk assessment, and referral to specialists. The availability and accessibility of these physicians directly impact the potential for early diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access**

The physician-to-patient ratio in 19135, and indeed across Philadelphia, is a key indicator of access to care. High ratios, reflecting fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. This is especially problematic for lung cancer, where timely intervention is often critical. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined with physician directories and practice data, can help paint a picture of the current situation.

Areas with lower physician density require innovative solutions to improve access. This might include extended hours, expanded use of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, and the development of community health centers. The ability of patients to navigate the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, understanding insurance coverage, and accessing transportation, also significantly impacts access.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**

Identifying standout primary care practices within 19135 requires a closer look at their operational models and service offerings. Practices that excel in lung cancer-related care often exhibit several key characteristics. These include a proactive approach to screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines for risk assessment and recommending appropriate imaging, such as low-dose CT scans.

Another key characteristic is a focus on patient education and shared decision-making. Practices that empower patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options are better positioned to engage them in their own care. These practices also often have strong referral networks with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, ensuring seamless transitions for patients requiring advanced care.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Mixed Bag**

Telemedicine holds significant potential to improve access to primary care, especially in underserved areas. It can reduce the need for travel, facilitate remote consultations, and provide convenient follow-up care. However, the adoption of telemedicine varies significantly among practices.

Factors influencing telemedicine adoption include technological infrastructure, physician comfort levels with virtual platforms, and patient access to reliable internet and devices. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine often offer a range of virtual services, including video consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling.

Telemedicine's impact on lung cancer care is multifaceted. It can be used for initial consultations, follow-up appointments after treatment, and remote monitoring of symptoms. It can also facilitate access to specialists for patients in remote areas. However, it's not a complete replacement for in-person care, particularly for physical examinations and certain diagnostic procedures.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can take a significant toll on patients' mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common experiences. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial.

Practices that prioritize mental health often have integrated behavioral health specialists, such as licensed clinical social workers or psychologists, who can provide counseling and support. They may also offer referrals to external mental health providers and support groups.

Early intervention for mental health issues can improve patients' quality of life and adherence to treatment plans. The ability to address the psychological aspects of lung cancer care is a critical component of comprehensive care.

**Overall Assessment and Recommendations**

The overall Lung Cancer Score for 19135 and Philadelphia primary care will depend on a complex interplay of the factors discussed above. A high score would reflect a high physician-to-patient ratio, proactive screening practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as limited access to care, inadequate screening practices, or a lack of mental health resources.

The assessment should also consider the demographics of the area, including the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking rates and exposure to environmental pollutants. This information can help identify specific needs and tailor interventions accordingly.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the primary care landscape in 19135 and Philadelphia, including the specific locations of practices, their service offerings, and their telemedicine capabilities, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into healthcare access and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.