15745, Heilwood, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15745, Heilwood, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15745 has some form of health insurance. 37.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.50 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 15745 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 41 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15745. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 51 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,354 health care providers accessible to residents in 15745, Heilwood, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Heilwood, PA (ZIP Code 15745)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of healthcare resources in Heilwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15745), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to evaluate the availability and accessibility of services, particularly for primary care, which is crucial for early diagnosis and ongoing care. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all of which contribute to a “Lung Cancer Score” indirectly reflecting the community's preparedness to address this serious disease.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway rests upon robust primary care. In Heilwood, assessing primary care availability begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are difficult to obtain without a comprehensive data pull, publicly available resources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. A low physician-to-patient ratio (meaning a higher number of patients per doctor) can indicate potential access challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care services. Further investigation into the types of primary care physicians (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine) and their specific training in lung cancer risk factors and screening protocols is critical.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are important. Are there any standout practices in the area? This could involve identifying clinics known for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventative care, or their utilization of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening. Examining practice websites, patient reviews, and referrals from specialists can provide insights into the quality of care provided. Consider the availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and walk-in services, which can improve access for working individuals. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray machines, can also streamline the diagnostic process.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care providers in Heilwood is a key factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients with chronic conditions. This is especially important for patients who may have mobility issues or who live in remote areas, reducing the burden of travel and improving access to care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the technological infrastructure supporting them, is essential. Does the practice offer virtual visits? Do they use secure platforms for communication and data sharing? These factors contribute to the overall accessibility and quality of care.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive care. Primary care physicians should be able to identify patients who may benefit from mental health support and provide referrals to appropriate services. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, in the community or easily accessible through referral networks is essential. Does the local hospital or healthcare system offer mental health services? Are there support groups for cancer patients and their families? These resources can play a vital role in supporting patients through their journey.

In addition to primary care and mental health, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Heilwood plays a role. This includes the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists, who are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Assessing the proximity of these specialists, the referral pathways between primary care physicians and specialists, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., CT scanners, radiation therapy) is necessary. The presence of a hospital or medical center with a dedicated cancer center can also improve access to comprehensive care.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for Heilwood, while not a definitive numerical value without a detailed data pull, would be influenced by these factors. A high score would reflect a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, readily accessible primary care practices, robust telemedicine adoption, ample mental health resources, and a well-integrated healthcare system. Conversely, a low score would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes for lung cancer patients.

The assessment of lung cancer preparedness in Heilwood is an ongoing process. It requires constant monitoring of healthcare resources, patient needs, and emerging best practices. The data used to generate this analysis, while informative, represents a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are dynamic and evolve constantly.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Heilwood and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations and data analysis tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and understand the demographic characteristics of the community. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper insight into the healthcare environment in Heilwood and surrounding areas.