19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.15 percent of the residents in 19149 has some form of health insurance. 48.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.38 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 19149 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17,667 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19149. An estimate of 86 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,565 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 92,438 health care providers accessible to residents in 19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 19149 & Primary Care in Philadelphia**

Evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 19149, coupled with a broader assessment of primary care availability in Philadelphia, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must delve into the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs), the crucial gatekeepers to early detection and referral, and then examine the specialized resources available for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of vital mental health support, all factors that significantly influence patient outcomes.

ZIP code 19149, encompassing portions of Southwest Philadelphia, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The socio-economic demographics of the area, coupled with potential environmental factors, may influence lung cancer incidence rates. Therefore, access to quality primary care becomes even more critical. The physician-to-patient ratio in this specific ZIP code needs careful examination. While precise figures fluctuate, a shortage of PCPs would inevitably lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local healthcare networks is crucial to determine the current ratio.

The availability of primary care in Philadelphia, as a whole, is a significant factor. A robust primary care system, with sufficient capacity to handle the patient load, ensures that individuals have regular access to preventative screenings, including discussions about lung cancer risk factors (smoking, environmental exposures) and early detection strategies. This includes access to chest X-rays and, when indicated, low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The city's overall primary care infrastructure must be assessed to gauge its ability to meet the needs of the population, especially within vulnerable communities.

Identifying standout practices within 19149 and the broader Philadelphia area is essential. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in patient care, utilize evidence-based practices, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive treatment. This analysis would involve reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, physician ratings, and data on outcomes, such as survival rates and time to diagnosis. These practices would ideally have a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists working collaboratively.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare delivery, and its adoption within 19149 and Philadelphia is crucial. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or have mobility limitations. It can also facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health therapy. The integration of telemedicine into primary care and oncology practices can significantly improve patient convenience and potentially lead to earlier diagnoses and more timely interventions. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is essential.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, but critical, component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is vital for patients and their families. The availability of mental health resources within 19149 and the broader Philadelphia area needs evaluation. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (individual therapy, support groups), and the accessibility of these resources (insurance coverage, wait times). Integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

The assessment of lung cancer care within 19149 and Philadelphia must also consider the availability of specialized resources. This includes access to advanced diagnostic imaging (PET scans, MRI), state-of-the-art treatment options (targeted therapies, immunotherapy), and clinical trials. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers, with multidisciplinary teams and research programs, is a positive indicator. Furthermore, the ability of patients to navigate the healthcare system, from initial screening to treatment and follow-up care, is a crucial factor. This involves examining the availability of patient navigators, who can assist patients in coordinating appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance.

The analysis should also evaluate the impact of health insurance coverage on access to care. The availability of affordable health insurance, including coverage for preventative screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment, is essential. Disparities in insurance coverage can exacerbate existing health inequities, leading to poorer outcomes for vulnerable populations. The analysis should assess the rates of uninsured and underinsured individuals within 19149 and the broader Philadelphia area and the impact of these factors on access to lung cancer care.

In conclusion, evaluating lung cancer care in ZIP code 19149 and Philadelphia requires a comprehensive approach. It necessitates an assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialized treatment options, and the impact of insurance coverage. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 19149 and Philadelphia, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their maps can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas of need.