15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.20 percent of the residents in 15148 has some form of health insurance. 61.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.36 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 15148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15148. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15148 & Wilmerding Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 15148 (covering portions of North Versailles, PA) and the availability of primary care resources in the neighboring borough of Wilmerding, PA. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem relevant to lung cancer patients, including physician availability, access to specialized care, and supportive services. The analysis will then conclude with a call to action to utilize CartoChrome maps for enhanced geographic insights.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, playing a crucial role in early detection, referral to specialists, and ongoing management. In Wilmerding, the assessment of primary care availability is paramount. A key metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will investigate the number of PCPs practicing within Wilmerding and the surrounding areas, comparing this to the local population size to determine the physician-to-patient ratio.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the scope of services offered by available primary care practices. Do they offer comprehensive preventative screenings, including discussions about lung cancer risk factors like smoking history and family history? Are they equipped to perform initial assessments, order necessary diagnostic tests (such as chest X-rays), and provide guidance on smoking cessation programs? The presence of these services directly impacts the potential for early detection and intervention, which are critical for improving lung cancer outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care is also a critical consideration. The analysis will investigate the presence of standout practices within the region, focusing on factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, and the utilization of evidence-based practices. Does the practice employ electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between providers? Are they actively participating in quality improvement initiatives? These elements contribute to a more coordinated and effective healthcare experience for patients.

The availability of specialists is another crucial factor. Lung cancer care often involves a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The analysis will assess the proximity and accessibility of these specialists to residents of 15148 and Wilmerding. Are there specialized cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance? Are there established referral pathways between primary care practices and these specialists? Delays in accessing specialized care can negatively impact patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly playing a role in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The analysis will investigate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by both primary care practices and specialists in the region. Do practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or for discussing test results? Are there opportunities for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience.

Mental health support is also a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health resources for patients in 15148 and Wilmerding. Are there mental health professionals integrated into primary care practices or cancer centers? Are there support groups or counseling services available locally? Addressing the psychological needs of patients is essential for their overall well-being and can positively impact their treatment adherence and quality of life.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence access to care. Are there programs to assist patients with the cost of treatment, transportation, and other related expenses? Does the region have a high percentage of uninsured or underinsured individuals? Addressing these socioeconomic barriers is essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to quality lung cancer care.

The analysis will also investigate the presence of community outreach programs and educational initiatives. Are there programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are there opportunities for community members to participate in smoking cessation programs? Proactive community engagement can play a vital role in preventing lung cancer and improving early detection rates.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care in 15148 and the primary care resources available in Wilmerding are influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and socioeconomic considerations all contribute to the overall healthcare landscape. This analysis has provided a comprehensive overview of these elements, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. The goal is to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the current state of lung cancer care in the region.

For a more in-depth understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.