15431, Dunbar, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 15431, Dunbar, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 15431 has some form of health insurance. 49.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.56 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 15431 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 995 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15431. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 757 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,097 health care providers accessible to residents in 15431, Dunbar, Pennsylvania.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Dunbar, PA (ZIP Code 15431)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within Dunbar, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15431), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer care. The assessment considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all vital components in providing comprehensive and timely care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. A comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" is implicitly constructed, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare services within the specified geographic area.

Dunbar, a small borough in Fayette County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The area's demographics, including potential age distribution and socioeconomic factors, can influence healthcare needs and resource allocation. The analysis begins by assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the first point of contact for many patients, and a crucial element in early detection and referral for lung cancer screening and treatment.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from medical directories and insurance provider networks, can provide an estimate of this ratio within the 15431 ZIP code. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and characteristics of available primary care practices must be considered. Are there any standout practices within Dunbar or in neighboring areas that serve residents of 15431? These practices might be distinguished by their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventative care, or their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools. Identifying these practices is crucial for understanding the best options for residents seeking primary care.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score. The use of telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among local PCPs and specialists is essential. Does the local healthcare infrastructure support telemedicine, and are physicians and patients comfortable utilizing these technologies? This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, consultations with specialists, and managing chronic conditions, all of which are common in lung cancer care.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive lung cancer care plan. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score must therefore consider the accessibility of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 15431 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Are there local mental health clinics or practices? Do primary care physicians offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways? The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also significantly improve the patient experience.

The analysis will also examine the availability of specialized care related to lung cancer. While the focus is on primary care, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral from primary care physicians, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as CT scanners and radiation therapy, are all critical factors.

The assessment of primary care availability in Dunbar involves a multi-faceted approach. The review considers the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their specialties, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. It also examines the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, a critical factor in timely care. The analysis will also consider the location of primary care practices, including their proximity to public transportation and their accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. EHRs facilitate communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and allow for the seamless sharing of patient information. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to manage complex cases like lung cancer, ensuring that all providers involved in a patient's care have access to the most up-to-date information.

The analysis of telemedicine capabilities will go beyond simply identifying practices that offer virtual consultations. It will consider the types of telemedicine services offered, the platforms used, and the level of patient satisfaction with these services. It will also assess the availability of remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices that can track vital signs and other health indicators.

The evaluation of mental health resources will encompass the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management services. It will also consider the presence of specialized mental health programs for individuals with cancer, such as support groups or counseling services. The analysis will assess the accessibility of these resources, including their cost, their location, and their availability of appointments.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape in Dunbar. It is intended to provide a snapshot of the current state of healthcare services and to identify areas where improvements are needed. The information can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.

The ultimate goal is to empower residents of Dunbar with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system and receive the best possible care. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure, individuals can make informed choices about their healthcare providers and advocate for improvements in the quality and accessibility of care. The analysis provides a foundation for ongoing monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that the healthcare needs of the community are met.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dunbar, including detailed mapping of physician locations, clinic accessibility, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis with **CartoChrome maps**. Leverage the power of visual data to gain a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare ecosystem in your community.