16148, Hermitage, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 16148, Hermitage, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.80 percent of the residents in 16148 has some form of health insurance. 49.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.40 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 16148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16148. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,306 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,604 health care providers accessible to residents in 16148, Hermitage, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 16148, specifically considering the availability of primary care in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. This assessment incorporates several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive lung cancer care strategy.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, a less personalized care experience. Within ZIP code 16148, a detailed analysis of primary care physician availability is crucial. This involves examining the number of practicing primary care physicians within the area and comparing it to the population size. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards will be used to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio will be compared to regional and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care services in Hermitage. A lower ratio would indicate better access, potentially leading to earlier detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in various aspects of patient care. This includes early detection strategies, such as proactive lung cancer screening programs for high-risk individuals (smokers and former smokers). Practices that utilize advanced diagnostic technologies, like low-dose CT scans, and adhere to established screening guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) will be given higher consideration. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive treatment plans, including access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons, are crucial. The ability to provide coordinated care, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, is a significant advantage. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives also contribute to advancing lung cancer care and will be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living far from medical facilities. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices in Hermitage offer telemedicine services. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., medication management, counseling), and the ease of use of the telemedicine platform. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models will be recognized for their commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes assessing whether practices have on-site counselors or therapists, or if they have established referral networks with mental health professionals. Practices that prioritize mental health support, offering services like individual therapy, group counseling, and support groups, will be viewed favorably. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for supporting the well-being of lung cancer patients.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a critical factor in assessing the quality of lung cancer care. The analysis will examine the number of specialists practicing within or near ZIP code 16148, and their affiliations with local hospitals and cancer centers. Proximity to specialized treatment centers, such as those offering radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is also an important consideration. The ability to access a multidisciplinary team of specialists is crucial for providing comprehensive and effective lung cancer care.

Data sources will include publicly available information, such as physician directories, hospital websites, and insurance provider networks. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The analysis will also consider the practices' accreditations and certifications, such as those from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for physicians in ZIP code 16148 will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to specialists might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing patients to easily compare the quality of care offered by different practices.

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the lung cancer care landscape in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available information and may not reflect the full scope of each practice's services. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their individual needs and treatment options.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and access to care in the Hermitage area, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.