19138, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19138, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.81 percent of the residents in 19138 has some form of health insurance. 54.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.51 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 19138 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,443 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19138. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,220 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 97,618 health care providers accessible to residents in 19138, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19138) & Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on the 19138 ZIP code and its primary care availability, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis assesses the quality and accessibility of care, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine integration, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources – all critical elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery from lung cancer.

The 19138 ZIP code, encompassing parts of West Philadelphia, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Socioeconomic factors, including poverty and limited access to transportation, can significantly impact healthcare access and outcomes. Understanding these contextual elements is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation of the available resources. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the crucial first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in early detection through screening and referral. The availability of PCPs, therefore, directly influences the success of lung cancer interventions.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access to care. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The distribution of PCPs within the 19138 area is critical. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? Are practices accepting new patients, or are wait times excessively long? These are questions that must be addressed to understand the true accessibility of primary care.

Standout practices within the 19138 area and the broader Philadelphia region deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate innovative approaches to patient care, including enhanced screening programs, patient navigation services, and multidisciplinary care teams. They may also have strong relationships with local hospitals and specialists, facilitating seamless transitions for patients requiring advanced diagnostics or treatment. Identifying these high-performing practices and understanding their best practices can inform strategies for improving care delivery across the region.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients facing transportation challenges or mobility limitations. Remote consultations, virtual monitoring, and online educational resources can empower patients and reduce the burden on traditional healthcare settings. The extent to which primary care practices in the 19138 area have embraced telemedicine, and the types of services they offer remotely, are crucial factors in assessing the overall quality of care.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of overall well-being. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and the availability of specialized mental health providers in the 19138 area is a key component of this analysis.

Evaluating the resources available for lung cancer screening is also vital. Early detection is critical for improving survival rates. The availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, as recommended for high-risk individuals, is a crucial indicator of quality care. Are primary care practices actively promoting LDCT screening? Are they equipped to provide the necessary counseling and follow-up care? These are important questions to answer.

Beyond the direct provision of medical care, the availability of supportive services plays a crucial role in patient outcomes. This includes access to social workers, financial assistance programs, and patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Evaluating the availability of these supportive services within the 19138 area is critical for a holistic assessment.

The analysis also must consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as housing, food security, and access to transportation can significantly affect a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. Understanding the prevalence of these challenges within the 19138 area and assessing the resources available to address them is essential for a comprehensive evaluation.

Finally, the integration of data and technology is crucial for improving care coordination and patient outcomes. Electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Data analytics can be used to identify high-risk patients and track outcomes. The extent to which primary care practices in the 19138 area have adopted these technologies is an important factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

This analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape of lung cancer care in the 19138 ZIP code and the broader Philadelphia area. It will identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The goal is to provide actionable insights that can inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients battling lung cancer.

To delve deeper into this complex landscape, and to visualize the distribution of resources, physician density, and other critical factors, we recommend exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and availability in the Philadelphia area.