15143, Sewickley, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15143, Sewickley, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.19 percent of the residents in 15143 has some form of health insurance. 27.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.53 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 15143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,492 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15143. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,684 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,124 health care providers accessible to residents in 15143, Sewickley, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Sewickley (ZIP Code 15143)**

The assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within Sewickley, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15143), considering factors that directly and indirectly impact the diagnosis, treatment, and overall well-being of individuals facing this challenging disease. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection and prompt intervention. This is where primary care plays a crucial role. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order appropriate diagnostic tests (like chest X-rays or CT scans), and refer patients to specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons) is paramount.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Sewickley is a fundamental step. A higher ratio of PCPs per capita generally indicates greater accessibility to primary care services. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide valuable insights. However, simply looking at the raw numbers isn't enough. The age and experience of the physicians, their specialization (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and their availability (e.g., accepting new patients, office hours) are also essential considerations.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by local practices is critical. Identifying standout practices requires a review of several factors. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable perspectives on patient experiences, including wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation status from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also be a helpful indicator of a practice's commitment to quality and patient-centered care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results. This can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas. The availability of telemedicine services within Sewickley practices should be assessed, considering the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, secure messaging) and the ease of access for patients.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Assessing the presence of mental health services within local practices or through partnerships with external providers is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health screenings and interventions into the primary care setting can help identify and address mental health needs early on.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within or near Sewickley. This includes the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists, the quality of their services, and their collaboration with primary care physicians are all important factors. The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as PET scans, radiation therapy, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, should also be evaluated.

Another important aspect is the availability of patient education and support resources. This includes information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support groups. Access to these resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and navigate the challenges of living with lung cancer. The presence of patient navigators, who can assist patients in coordinating their care and accessing resources, is particularly valuable.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. This includes the availability of health insurance, the cost of healthcare services, and the transportation options available to patients. Addressing these barriers is essential to ensuring that all individuals in Sewickley have equal access to high-quality lung cancer care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Sewickley must also consider the specific needs of the local population. This includes the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking rates and exposure to environmental pollutants. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the unique needs of the community can improve outcomes.

The data gathered should be synthesized to create a comprehensive 'Lung Cancer Score' for Sewickley. This score should reflect the overall quality of care, accessibility of services, and availability of resources. It should also identify areas where improvements are needed. The score should not be a single number, but rather a multifaceted assessment that considers all the factors discussed above.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Sewickley, with a focus on lung cancer care. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the quality of care and ensure that all individuals have access to the resources they need to fight this devastating disease. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to track progress toward improving lung cancer care in Sewickley.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sewickley, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights and help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis.