15108, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15108, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.79 percent of the residents in 15108 has some form of health insurance. 28.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.18 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 15108 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,602 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 294 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15108. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,410 health care providers accessible to residents in 15108, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score: Coraopolis, PA (ZIP Code 15108) - An Analysis

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15108) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. We must examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), as they are the crucial first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at risk. We also need to assess the overall quality of care, considering factors like early detection, treatment options, and access to supportive services, including mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for Coraopolis, focusing on the crucial elements that influence patient outcomes.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in robust primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Coraopolis is a critical indicator. Data on this ratio, ideally obtained from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, provides an initial understanding of access. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests better access to preventative care, including screenings and early intervention, which are vital for lung cancer. If the ratio is concerning, it could indicate challenges in securing timely appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Coraopolis warrants scrutiny. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing and coordination of care? These factors contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system. Practices that actively participate in preventative care programs, such as smoking cessation initiatives and lung cancer screening recommendations based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines (e.g., annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for high-risk individuals), are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect. The ability to consult with a PCP or specialist remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assess the availability of telemedicine services among local practices. Do they offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication management, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can also play a crucial role in providing access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

The availability of specialized care is also critical. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) and oncologists (cancer specialists) is essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment. Research the presence of these specialists within or near Coraopolis. Are there local hospitals or clinics with dedicated lung cancer treatment programs? Are there multidisciplinary teams that include pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses? The proximity and accessibility of these specialists directly impact the quality of care.

Standout practices in Coraopolis should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. They might be recognized for their proactive approach to screening, their use of advanced diagnostic techniques, or their patient-centered approach to care. Look for practices that have received awards or recognitions for their quality of care. Patient reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assess the availability of mental health services in Coraopolis. Are there therapists, counselors, or support groups available to patients? Does the local hospital or clinic offer mental health support services as part of its cancer care program? Access to these resources can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for smoking cessation is essential. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a crucial preventative measure. Investigate the availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups. Are these programs readily accessible and affordable?

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Coraopolis, based on this analysis, would be a composite score based on the weighted average of these factors. The weight assigned to each factor would reflect its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialists might be weighted more heavily than the availability of extended hours. The final score would provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Coraopolis in terms of lung cancer care.

The analysis should also consider the socio-economic factors that can impact access to care. Are there disparities in access based on income, race, or ethnicity? Are there programs in place to address these disparities?

Finally, the analysis should be dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the "Lung Cancer Score" should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the availability of services, the quality of care, and the adoption of new technologies.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Coraopolis and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent the location of healthcare providers, specialists, and support services, providing a clear and concise overview of the resources available to patients.