30021, Clarkston, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 30021, Clarkston, Georgia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.07 percent of the residents in 30021 has some form of health insurance. 43.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.31 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 30021 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 30021. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,067 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 39,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 30021, Clarkston, Georgia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Clarkston, GA (ZIP Code 30021)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Clarkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 30021), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician resources, and access to supportive services. The goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for residents, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on the interplay of various factors.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt treatment. This begins with a robust primary care infrastructure. In Clarkston, primary care availability is a critical consideration. The area’s population density and socioeconomic factors contribute to potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent primary care. Assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) per 1,000 residents provides a basic physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a key indicator of accessibility. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, creating "healthcare deserts" within the ZIP code? Are there practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, which are crucial for a diverse population? Examining the types of practices – solo practices, group practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems – offers insights into resources and specialized support available. Larger healthcare systems often have established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists vital for lung cancer care.

Another critical factor is the availability of pulmonologists and oncologists within or easily accessible to the 30021 ZIP code. Lung cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach. Pulmonologists diagnose and manage respiratory conditions, including lung cancer. Oncologists specialize in cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The proximity of these specialists significantly impacts patient outcomes. Long travel times can create barriers to care, delaying treatment and adding to patient stress.

The quality of care is also determined by the practices themselves. This includes factors such as the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. Do practices actively screen high-risk individuals for lung cancer using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans? Do they offer smoking cessation programs? These proactive measures are essential for early detection and prevention. Standout practices in the area will likely demonstrate a commitment to these best practices, providing a higher level of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for a population that may face transportation challenges or have limited mobility. The availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Telemedicine also offers the potential to connect patients with specialists located outside the immediate area. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among healthcare providers in 30021 is a key component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are another vital aspect of overall well-being, particularly for patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Lung cancer can have a significant emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness is crucial. Are there readily accessible resources, such as support groups or individual therapy options, within the community? Strong integration of mental health services into the healthcare system can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The socioeconomic profile of the population in 30021 also plays a role. Factors such as income levels, education, and access to transportation can influence health outcomes. Lower income levels may limit access to healthcare services, including screening and treatment. Limited access to transportation can create barriers to attending appointments and receiving necessary care. Understanding these socioeconomic factors is essential for a comprehensive assessment of the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling, is important. These services can help patients manage the side effects of treatment and improve their overall quality of life. Access to these resources can significantly impact the patient experience and improve outcomes.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just about the availability of medical resources; it's also about the quality of care provided. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, communication between healthcare providers and patients, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care and communication are likely to achieve better outcomes.

Finally, the overall Lung Cancer Score for 30021 reflects a complex interplay of factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, socioeconomic factors, and the quality of care all contribute to the overall score. Addressing any weaknesses in these areas is crucial for improving the health outcomes of residents in Clarkston.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Clarkston, Georgia (ZIP Code 30021), including the distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools.

**Explore the healthcare data in Clarkston, GA (30021) using CartoChrome maps for a visual and data-driven approach to understanding healthcare accessibility and resources. See how the different data points correlate and make informed decisions. Click here to explore the maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.**