19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.41 percent of the residents in 19148 has some form of health insurance. 40.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.35 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 19148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19148. An estimate of 86 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,555 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90,891 health care providers accessible to residents in 19148, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 19148 ZIP code of Philadelphia, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including access to care, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This score is not a definitive ranking but rather a comparative assessment based on publicly available information and industry best practices. It aims to highlight areas of strength and potential improvement within the local healthcare landscape, especially concerning lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment support.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in accessibility. Within 19148, a key element is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per primary care physician (PCP), can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as information from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, would be examined to determine the average patient load for PCPs in this area. A higher ratio would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a lower ratio, suggesting better access, would contribute positively.

Beyond the raw numbers, the availability of appointments, including same-day and next-day slots, is vital. Practices that prioritize accommodating urgent needs and offering flexible scheduling options score higher. This responsiveness is particularly important for patients experiencing symptoms that may indicate lung cancer, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Practices that utilize online scheduling systems or have extended hours would be viewed favorably.

Primary care availability across Philadelphia, and specifically within 19148, is significantly influenced by the distribution of practices. The geographical spread of PCPs is assessed. Areas with a concentration of practices and easy access via public transportation or readily available parking would be viewed more positively than those with limited options. The proximity of practices to community centers, senior housing, and underserved populations is also considered. The goal is to determine if care is equitably distributed.

Standout practices are identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care and preventative measures. Practices that proactively offer lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer), receive higher marks. This includes the implementation of screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices that actively educate patients about the risks of smoking and offer smoking cessation programs also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations and follow-up appointments significantly enhances access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, allowing for remote consultations, prescription refills, and the monitoring of chronic conditions, are viewed more favorably. The ease of use and integration of these platforms into the practice's workflow are also assessed.

Mental health resources are a vital component of comprehensive care, especially for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis can be significant, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being and treatment adherence. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, receive higher marks. The availability of resources such as support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric care is evaluated.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also considered. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to manage patient information, track screenings, and facilitate communication between providers receive a higher score. The ability to share patient data securely with specialists and other healthcare providers is essential for coordinated care. The use of patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers, is also evaluated.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the diversity of the medical staff and the practice's commitment to cultural competency. Practices that have a diverse staff and demonstrate an understanding of the cultural and linguistic needs of the community are viewed more positively. This includes providing services in multiple languages and offering culturally sensitive care.

The presence of ancillary services, such as on-site pharmacies, laboratories, and imaging facilities, also contributes to the score. These services streamline the patient experience and reduce the need for multiple appointments at different locations. Practices that offer these services are viewed more favorably.

The score is not static; it is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and practices that are committed to continuous improvement and innovation will consistently score higher. This includes staying up-to-date with the latest medical advancements, participating in quality improvement initiatives, and seeking feedback from patients.

Primary care availability in Philadelphia, and specifically in 19148, is a complex issue. While some areas may have excellent access to care, others may face challenges related to physician shortages, transportation barriers, or socioeconomic factors. The Lung Cancer Score attempts to capture these nuances and provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The information used to create this analysis is gathered from publicly available sources, including government websites, healthcare directories, and practice websites. It is important to note that this analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations and treatment plans.

This assessment is a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in 19148. To delve deeper into the geographic distribution of primary care physicians, access to care, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping tools available from CartoChrome. These tools provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape in detail and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.