15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.61 percent of the residents in 15110 has some form of health insurance. 67.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.34 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 15110 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,733 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 32 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15110. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 705 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,308 health care providers accessible to residents in 15110, Duquesne, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15110 and Primary Care in Duquesne

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, and the broader healthcare landscape within ZIP code 15110, which encompasses the city of McKeesport. The goal is to assess factors influencing lung cancer outcomes, including early detection, treatment access, and supportive care.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is timely diagnosis and treatment. This begins with accessible primary care. In Duquesne, understanding primary care availability is crucial. A significant challenge is the historical decline in population and economic activity, potentially impacting the number of practicing physicians. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Duquesne is paramount. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could hinder timely access to screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, recommended for high-risk individuals.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within Duquesne is important. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving other neighborhoods underserved? Are there transportation barriers that prevent residents from accessing care? These factors must be evaluated to understand the true accessibility of primary care.

Within ZIP code 15110, a broader assessment is needed. McKeesport, as the major population center within this ZIP code, likely has a more diverse healthcare ecosystem than Duquesne. Identifying the number of PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists is essential. Data from insurance providers, hospital networks, and online physician directories can be used to create a comprehensive inventory of healthcare providers.

Assessing the quality of care requires looking beyond physician numbers. Are there any standout practices within 15110? Identifying practices with a strong track record in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is critical. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies, the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, and patient satisfaction scores. Researching the affiliations of these practices with larger healthcare systems, such as UPMC or Allegheny Health Network, can provide insights into the resources and support available to patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration can improve access to care, especially for patients in underserved areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth services within 15110 is vital. Do local practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telemedicine can reduce travel time, improve convenience, and potentially increase patient adherence to treatment plans.

Beyond medical treatment, mental health resources play a significant role in lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients and their families. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within 15110 is crucial. Are there therapists, counselors, and support groups available? Are these services integrated into the care provided by primary care practices and oncology centers? Identifying programs that address the specific mental health needs of lung cancer patients can significantly improve their quality of life.

The presence of community health initiatives is another factor to consider. Are there programs focused on lung cancer prevention, such as smoking cessation programs? Are there outreach efforts to educate the public about the importance of early detection and screening? Community involvement can play a vital role in improving lung cancer outcomes.

Analyzing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide insights into lung cancer incidence and mortality rates within 15110. Comparing these rates to state and national averages can help determine whether residents of McKeesport are disproportionately affected by the disease.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthcare can all contribute to disparities in care. Understanding the demographics of 15110, including income levels, educational attainment, and insurance coverage, is essential for a comprehensive assessment.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' would be a composite measure reflecting the various factors discussed. It would not be a single number but rather a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. The score would be informed by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community initiatives.

This analysis is not intended to be an exhaustive study. It's a starting point for understanding the complex interplay of factors that influence lung cancer outcomes in 15110 and Duquesne. Further research, including on-site visits, interviews with healthcare providers, and patient surveys, would be necessary for a more complete assessment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial representation of the data, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and visualize the relationships between different healthcare providers and the community they serve.