15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.44 percent of the residents in 15139 has some form of health insurance. 31.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.77 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 15139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,280 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 294 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15139. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania.

The analysis will focus on evaluating the availability and quality of lung cancer care within the geographic confines of ZIP Code 15139, encompassing Oakmont, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. This assessment will incorporate factors relevant to patient access, including primary care physician (PCP) availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized lung cancer services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape for individuals seeking lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this specific region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. Oakmont's primary care availability is a critical factor. Access to PCPs who are proactive in screening for lung cancer, especially for at-risk individuals (smokers or former smokers with a significant smoking history), is paramount. The proximity of these physicians to patients, coupled with appointment availability, significantly impacts early detection rates. Delays in accessing primary care can translate to delayed screenings, potentially leading to later-stage diagnoses and poorer outcomes. A high concentration of PCPs within the 15139 ZIP code, or in nearby areas with easy access, is thus a positive indicator. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs, or long wait times for appointments, raises concerns about timely access to essential preventative care.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a quantitative measure of healthcare access. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher number of physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Analyzing the ratio of PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists within the service area is essential. This analysis should consider not only the raw numbers but also the distribution of specialists. Are specialists concentrated in a single practice, or are they spread throughout the community? This distribution impacts patient convenience and the potential for coordinated care. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within the ZIP code or in close proximity is a crucial element of a strong lung cancer care system.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care is equally important. Identifying standout practices in Oakmont and the surrounding areas involves evaluating several factors. Reputation, patient reviews, and the presence of board-certified specialists are important. Does the practice offer comprehensive lung cancer screening services, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, as recommended by national guidelines? Are there established protocols for managing patients with suspicious findings, including timely referrals to specialists? The integration of multidisciplinary teams, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals, is a hallmark of high-quality lung cancer care.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in recent years. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in the 15139 ZIP code can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face geographic or mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telemedicine options, including the types of services offered via telehealth, will be assessed. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment.

The impact of lung cancer extends beyond the physical realm, often affecting patients' mental and emotional well-being. The integration of mental health resources into the care pathway is, therefore, crucial. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting individuals with cancer. Does the primary care practice or the oncology practices in the area offer or facilitate access to these services? Are there support groups available for patients and their families? The availability of these resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The assessment will consider the presence of any specialized lung cancer programs or centers of excellence within the service area. These programs often offer a comprehensive approach to care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options, clinical trials, and supportive services. The proximity of these centers, and their accessibility to patients in Oakmont, is an important factor. The presence of clinical trials is particularly important, as they offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation of lung cancer care in the 15139 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. The analysis will consider primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This will help individuals make informed decisions about their care and will highlight areas where improvements are needed.

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