15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.47 percent of the residents in 15324 has some form of health insurance. 46.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.89 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 15324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 147 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15324. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 171 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,402 health care providers accessible to residents in 15324, Cokeburg, Pennsylvania.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15324 and Primary Care Availability in Cokeburg**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 15324 (likely encompassing the town of Bentleyville and surrounding areas in Washington County, Pennsylvania) and the primary care availability in the nearby community of Cokeburg requires a multifaceted approach. A “Lung Cancer Score,” while not a formal medical metric, provides a framework to assess the accessibility and quality of care relevant to lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This analysis will focus on factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician density, access to primary care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Cokeburg, assessing primary care access is vital. This involves determining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, presents a significant hurdle. Patients might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early diagnoses. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in a specific area, leaving some residents with limited options? Are they accepting new patients? These factors directly influence the “Lung Cancer Score.”

ZIP Code 15324’s overall physician density is equally important. While the presence of specialists (oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons) is critical for treatment, the role of PCPs in early detection and preventative care cannot be overstated. They are the first line of defense, performing screenings, advising on smoking cessation, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. A high density of PCPs, coupled with easy access, contributes to a higher “Lung Cancer Score.” Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs necessitates longer travel times for appointments, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly benefit patients in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations. This is particularly relevant for patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer, who may experience fatigue and other debilitating side effects. The availability of telemedicine services, especially for primary care and oncology, can positively impact the “Lung Cancer Score.”

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and potential side effects can be immense. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for providing support and coping mechanisms. Examining the availability of mental health services within 15324 and Cokeburg, including the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and support groups, is a key factor in evaluating the “Lung Cancer Score.” A robust network of mental health resources can improve patient well-being and contribute to better treatment adherence.

Identifying standout practices within 15324 and the surrounding areas is crucial. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by individual practices and physicians. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the use of evidence-based practices, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening), and the integration of care coordination services. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, offer smoking cessation programs, and provide comprehensive support services would receive a higher rating in this assessment.

The accessibility of lung cancer screening programs is a critical factor. Early detection is key to improving survival rates. Analyzing the availability of low-dose CT scanning within 15324 and nearby facilities is essential. The presence of accredited screening programs, along with clear guidelines for patient eligibility and follow-up care, contributes to a higher “Lung Cancer Score.” Furthermore, the cost and insurance coverage for these screenings must be considered.

The presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations also influences the “Lung Cancer Score.” These groups provide invaluable emotional support, information, and resources for patients and their families. They can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, connect them with other patients, and provide a sense of community. The availability and accessibility of these resources are important indicators of the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care, such as oncology and pulmonology services, is paramount. Evaluating the number of oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons serving the 15324 area is crucial. The proximity of these specialists to primary care providers is also important. Effective communication and collaboration between specialists and PCPs can lead to better patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the “Lung Cancer Score” for doctors in ZIP Code 15324 and primary care availability in Cokeburg requires a comprehensive analysis of several factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of lung cancer screening programs, and the quality of care provided by individual practices. By considering these factors, a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape can be created, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 15324 and the Cokeburg area, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.