19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.94 percent of the residents in 19139 has some form of health insurance. 55.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.99 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 19139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19139. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,436 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for ZIP Code 19139 and Philadelphia Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 19139, Philadelphia, and the broader context of primary care availability, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as a "Lung Cancer Score," evaluates key factors impacting patient outcomes, from early detection and diagnosis to treatment and support services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and investigate the availability of mental health resources – all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and responsive primary care. Philadelphia, and specifically ZIP Code 19139, faces challenges in this regard. Primary care physician (PCP) availability is a significant concern. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, the general trend indicates a shortage, particularly in underserved communities. This scarcity can delay crucial screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, which are vital for early detection and improved survival rates. Delays in accessing PCPs can also hinder prompt referrals to specialists, further impacting patient outcomes.

Within ZIP Code 19139, identifying standout primary care practices becomes critical. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care, including robust screening programs and patient education. A "Lung Cancer Score" would consider factors like the practice's adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, the availability of smoking cessation programs, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and education, particularly those targeting high-risk populations, would receive higher scores. These practices serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in a challenging environment.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial area for evaluation. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, and its continued integration is essential for improving access to care, particularly for patients in underserved areas or with mobility limitations. A high "Lung Cancer Score" would reflect a practice's ability to offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations in certain cases. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve patient convenience, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved overall care. The ability to offer virtual support groups or educational sessions would further enhance a practice's score.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score." Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or readily refer patients to qualified therapists and counselors, would be highly valued. This includes access to support groups, individual therapy, and potentially even psychiatric services. The ability to address the emotional needs of patients, their families, and caregivers is paramount to their well-being and can significantly impact their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment and recovery. The integration of mental health services into the care continuum is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Beyond the immediate clinical setting, the "Lung Cancer Score" would also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem within Philadelphia. This includes the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers, access to clinical trials, and the quality of palliative care services. The presence of a strong network of support services, such as patient navigators and financial assistance programs, would also contribute to a higher score. Collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community organizations is essential for providing holistic and coordinated care.

To further refine the "Lung Cancer Score," data analysis plays a crucial role. This includes analyzing patient outcomes, such as survival rates and time to diagnosis, and evaluating patient satisfaction. Data-driven insights can identify areas for improvement and inform the development of targeted interventions. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate data collection and analysis, enabling practices to track their performance and identify opportunities to enhance patient care. This iterative process of evaluation and improvement is essential for optimizing the "Lung Cancer Score" and improving outcomes for lung cancer patients.

Furthermore, the "Lung Cancer Score" should incorporate an assessment of health equity. This includes evaluating whether all populations within ZIP Code 19139 have equal access to care, regardless of their race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or other factors. Addressing health disparities is crucial for ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to receive timely and effective lung cancer care. This requires identifying and addressing systemic barriers to care, such as lack of insurance coverage, transportation challenges, and language barriers.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 19139 and Philadelphia. By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. This analysis highlights the importance of accessible primary care, early detection, and comprehensive support services in improving patient outcomes.

To visualize the data and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping platform can help you analyze the "Lung Cancer Score" data and identify areas with the greatest needs.