15025, Clairton, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15025, Clairton, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.10 percent of the residents in 15025 has some form of health insurance. 37.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.88 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 15025 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,614 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15025. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,818 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,889 health care providers accessible to residents in 15025, Clairton, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Clairton, PA (ZIP Code 15025)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the Clairton, PA (ZIP Code 15025) area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in navigating the complexities of this disease. The analysis will consider the current healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, aim to provide a clear picture for residents seeking care.

Clairton, a small city in Allegheny County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access, including potential disparities related to socioeconomic factors and geographical limitations. Understanding these challenges is vital to creating a robust and effective healthcare ecosystem for those at risk or currently battling lung cancer.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and prompt referral to specialists. Evaluating primary care availability in Clairton involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including neighboring communities like Jefferson Hills, West Mifflin, and Elizabeth. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate a shortage of PCPs, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and professional medical associations will be essential in determining these ratios.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices needs evaluation. This includes assessing the practices' adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk of lung cancer. Practices that actively participate in screening programs, offer smoking cessation support, and proactively address risk factors will receive a higher score. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also important. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, improving care coordination and preventing medical errors.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding healthcare access, particularly in areas with limited resources. Its adoption by primary care practices and specialists in Clairton is a critical factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists located outside the immediate area. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., general consultations, specialist referrals), and the ease of use for patients will be considered. Practices that offer telehealth options, especially for follow-up care and medication management, will be highly rated.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score. This includes assessing the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and other mental health professionals within the area. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and programs specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families will be factored in. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the primary care setting, such as on-site therapists or referral networks, is a significant advantage.

Identifying standout practices within Clairton and the surrounding areas is an important part of this analysis. These practices will be recognized for their commitment to patient care, their adoption of best practices, and their proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and treatment. This involves identifying practices that excel in areas such as early detection, patient education, care coordination, and patient satisfaction. These practices often serve as models for other providers, improving the overall quality of care within the community. The analysis will consider patient reviews, practice accreditations, and any awards or recognitions received.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Clairton will be determined by weighting each of these factors. Primary care availability and quality will be given the highest weight, reflecting their foundational role in early detection and management. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources will also be weighted significantly, recognizing their importance in expanding access and supporting patient well-being. The physician-to-patient ratio will be considered as a key indicator of access.

The final score will be presented as a composite rating, providing a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape for lung cancer patients in Clairton. This score will serve as a valuable tool for residents seeking care, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare providers. It will also provide valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers, highlighting areas for improvement and guiding efforts to enhance the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Clairton and visualize the location of healthcare providers, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify practices, assess accessibility, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.