15018, Buena Vista, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15018, Buena Vista, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.93 percent of the residents in 15018 has some form of health insurance. 39.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.14 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 15018 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15018. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 242 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,340 health care providers accessible to residents in 15018, Buena Vista, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP Code 15018 (Buena Vista, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding area, specifically considering primary care access. The aim is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, reflecting the ease with which individuals in this area can access comprehensive lung cancer care. This score will consider factors such as physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), the presence of specialized lung cancer care, adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 15018 and the broader Buena Vista region is a critical starting point. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be utilized to determine the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents. A lower ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing timely primary care, which is crucial for early lung cancer detection through screening and prompt referral. The analysis will consider the availability of pulmonologists and oncologists in the area. Proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in Pittsburgh, will be factored in, as these centers often house specialized lung cancer treatment facilities, including radiation oncology and surgical services. The presence of these specialists directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Identifying standout practices is essential. The analysis will investigate local medical practices, assessing their approach to lung cancer care. This includes evaluating their commitment to evidence-based screening guidelines, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The availability of smoking cessation programs within these practices is another key indicator. These programs can play a vital role in preventing lung cancer and supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education and support, offering resources like patient navigators or support groups, will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will examine the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or geographical limitations. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists, will be viewed favorably. The ability to remotely monitor patients' health and provide timely interventions through telemedicine can also contribute to better outcomes.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within local practices or through referrals. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients, offering integrated mental health services or readily available referrals, will be given a higher rating. The presence of resources like support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families is also a significant factor.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, weighting the factors discussed above. A higher score will indicate better access to comprehensive lung cancer care, including early detection, specialized treatment, and supportive services. The score will reflect the availability of PCPs, the presence of specialists, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buena Vista and surrounding areas, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for patients undergoing treatment. This includes access to financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. The availability of palliative care services, which focus on managing pain and other symptoms, will also be considered. The ability of patients to access these resources can significantly improve their quality of life during treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis will explore the availability of clinical trials in the region. Access to clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and improve outcomes. The presence of a research-oriented medical center in the area will be considered a positive factor. The analysis will also consider the level of patient satisfaction with the care they receive. This will be assessed through patient reviews and surveys.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing residents of Buena Vista and the surrounding area to understand the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in their community. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the factors considered. The analysis will aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved access to care in their community.

This analysis will be dynamic, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This will ensure that the "Lung Cancer Score" remains a relevant and valuable resource for the community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement. The analysis will be transparent and data-driven, relying on publicly available information and expert opinion.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. It will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, allowing for targeted interventions to improve access to care and patient outcomes. The analysis will also serve as a catalyst for collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies.

The information presented in this analysis can be visualized and explored further with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and track changes over time. Explore the data and discover the healthcare landscape in Buena Vista with CartoChrome maps.