15090, Wexford, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15090, Wexford, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.94 percent of the residents in 15090 has some form of health insurance. 18.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.93 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 15090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,979 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 246 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15090. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,359 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,006 health care providers accessible to residents in 15090, Wexford, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on assessing the availability of resources and the quality of care for lung cancer patients within the 15090 ZIP code, centered on Wexford, Pennsylvania. We will examine the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), their accessibility, and the potential impact on early detection and treatment of lung cancer. This involves considering physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection, often initiated through a primary care physician. The physician-to-patient ratio within 15090 is a critical factor. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive care and potentially earlier detection of lung cancer. Accurate data on this ratio, including the number of active PCPs and the total population served, is essential for a comprehensive assessment. This data, readily available from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, should be analyzed to determine the current state of access within the Wexford area.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is crucial. Some practices may stand out due to their proactive approach to lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk, such as smokers or those with a family history of the disease. These standout practices may have implemented robust screening protocols, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Identifying these practices and understanding their methodologies can provide valuable insights into best practices for lung cancer care within the community. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) on lung cancer diagnosis and treatment demonstrate a commitment to staying current with the latest advancements in the field.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly in areas where access to specialists may be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Wexford can significantly impact lung cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for patients to travel, especially those who are already experiencing symptoms or undergoing treatment. It also facilitates access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered and the technology used, provides a clearer picture of the accessibility of care within the 15090 ZIP code.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Access to mental health resources is an integral part of comprehensive care. Primary care practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. Evaluating the availability of these resources, including the types of services offered and the referral pathways, is essential. This includes understanding the integration of mental health professionals within the practice or the availability of external referrals to qualified therapists and counselors specializing in cancer care.

Furthermore, understanding the insurance landscape is critical. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and specialists within the area influences access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensure that a larger segment of the population can access necessary services. This information is essential for patients navigating the healthcare system and seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.

The presence of specialized lung cancer centers or hospitals within or near the 15090 ZIP code also impacts care quality. These centers often offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, including the latest surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy regimens. Proximity to these centers, and the ease of referral from primary care practices, can significantly influence patient outcomes. Assessing the referral patterns of local PCPs to these specialized centers provides further insight into the quality of care available.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Wexford (15090) requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices with proactive screening protocols, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, assessing the availability of mental health resources, and understanding the insurance landscape. By examining these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. The availability of data and the willingness of healthcare providers to share information are critical to a complete assessment.

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