15102, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15102, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.34 percent of the residents in 15102 has some form of health insurance. 30.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.57 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 15102 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,004 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15102. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,306 health care providers accessible to residents in 15102, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Physician Resources in Bethel Park (ZIP Code 15102)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Bethel Park, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15102). The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician access, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. The assessment considers primary care availability, a critical entry point for early detection and referrals, as well as the broader healthcare ecosystem within the community.

Bethel Park, a suburb of Pittsburgh, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its demographic profile, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, influences the demand for and accessibility of healthcare services. The presence of nearby major medical centers, such as UPMC facilities, further shapes the healthcare options available to residents.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

A cornerstone of this analysis is the evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs). A robust PCP network is vital for proactive screening, early diagnosis, and timely referrals to specialists. Analyzing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association (AMA), we can estimate the PCP-to-patient ratio within 15102. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The analysis must also consider the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code, identifying areas with potential shortages or underserved populations.

Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available are examined. Are there solo practices, multi-specialty groups, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer greater resources, including extended hours, on-site diagnostic services, and a broader range of specialists. The presence of practices accepting new patients is also critical. This is a direct indicator of accessibility and the ability of residents to establish care with a PCP.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the practice's adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). Practices actively promoting screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers) are prioritized.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key factor. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing, allowing for seamless referrals to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. They also enable practices to track patient health data, identify at-risk individuals, and monitor treatment outcomes. Practices with patient portals that allow access to records and communication with physicians are also highly valued.

Patient reviews and satisfaction scores are incorporated into the assessment. Publicly available data from sources like Healthgrades and Vitals provide insights into patient experiences. Positive reviews that highlight clear communication, compassionate care, and timely appointments are indicative of a high-quality practice.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in areas with potential geographic barriers. The analysis assesses the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 15102. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education are viewed favorably.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients. It allows for follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to support groups without requiring travel. This is especially important for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The availability of telemedicine can also improve access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The analysis examines the proximity and accessibility of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also assessed. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are considered more supportive. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is another key factor. These groups provide a vital platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges and share experiences.

The assessment also considers the availability of other supportive services, such as palliative care, nutritional counseling, and smoking cessation programs. These services play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for lung cancer patients and their families.

**Overall "Lung Cancer Score" and Conclusion:**

The final "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weighting is based on the relative importance of each factor in influencing patient outcomes. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and primary care availability are given a higher weight than the availability of smoking cessation programs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare resources available to lung cancer patients in Bethel Park (15102). It highlights areas of strength and weakness, informing patients and healthcare providers about the community's capacity to support individuals affected by this disease. The analysis is not static; it is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

**Actionable Insights with CartoChrome Maps:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bethel Park and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant resources within the ZIP code. You can overlay data on population demographics, socioeconomic factors, and other relevant indicators to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment. This data-driven approach will provide you with actionable insights, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare options and advocate for improved access to care within your community. **Explore the interactive CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bethel Park (15102).**