15116, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15116, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.31 percent of the residents in 15116 has some form of health insurance. 33.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.12 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 15116 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,725 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 298 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15116. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,540 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,573 health care providers accessible to residents in 15116, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Glenshaw, PA (ZIP Code 15116)

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare resources, specifically concerning lung cancer detection and treatment, within the Glenshaw, PA ZIP code 15116, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score," considering factors such as physician density, primary care access, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support for patients and their families. The goal is to offer a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform residents seeking care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. In Glenshaw, the "primary care availability" is a critical component of the overall score. This encompasses not only the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) but also their capacity to accept new patients and the ease with which appointments can be secured. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater availability of physicians, contributes positively to the score. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs or long wait times for appointments will negatively impact the score, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early diagnosis.

Specific practices within the Glenshaw area warrant closer examination. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their commitment to preventive care, including routine lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals. Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, adhering to the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society, will receive higher marks. This includes assessing the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening method for high-risk individuals. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a strong track record of early detection and successful patient outcomes will be considered favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, especially in the context of lung cancer, offers significant advantages. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide access to support groups, and allow for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment or recovery. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring capabilities, will receive higher scores. This is particularly relevant for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in areas with limited access to specialized care.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources plays a vital role in the Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and the journey through treatment and recovery is often fraught with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of readily accessible mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric support, significantly enhances the score. Practices that have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams or have established strong referral networks for mental health services will be viewed more favorably. This includes assessing the availability of support groups for patients and their families, which can provide crucial emotional support and a sense of community.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of Glenshaw. While primary care forms the cornerstone of early detection and management, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists is essential for advanced treatment. The presence of well-equipped hospitals and cancer centers within a reasonable commuting distance, offering a full range of treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, will positively impact the score. The quality of these specialized services, as measured by patient outcomes and adherence to national treatment guidelines, is also a critical factor.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education and support resources. This includes access to information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services. Practices that provide educational materials, offer patient navigators to guide patients through the healthcare system, and connect patients with support groups will receive higher scores. This includes assessing the availability of financial assistance programs to help patients manage the costs of treatment.

A comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for Glenshaw, PA (15116) must also account for the socioeconomic factors that can influence access to care. This includes assessing the rates of health insurance coverage, the prevalence of smoking, and the overall health status of the community. Areas with higher rates of uninsured individuals or a higher prevalence of smoking may face greater challenges in providing effective lung cancer care. Addressing these disparities through targeted interventions and community outreach programs is crucial for improving the overall score.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for Glenshaw, PA (15116) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the complex interplay of various factors. It considers the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, the access to specialized care, and the socioeconomic context of the community. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Glenshaw, ultimately aiming to empower residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Glenshaw and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the availability of specialized services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare infrastructure in your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare journey.