30145, Kingston, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 30145, Kingston, Georgia is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.32 percent of the residents in 30145 has some form of health insurance. 32.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.18 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 30145 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,047 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 30145. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,219 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,269 health care providers accessible to residents in 30145, Kingston, Georgia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Kingston, GA (ZIP Code 30145)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources within Kingston, Georgia (ZIP Code 30145), specifically focusing on elements crucial for lung cancer prevention, early detection, and management. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health support, and other factors influencing patient outcomes. This evaluation will inform a “Lung Cancer Score” for the area, providing a snapshot of the community's preparedness to address this significant health concern.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Kingston, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Researching the precise physician-to-patient ratio for 30145 requires accessing data from sources like the Georgia Composite Medical Board and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This data will reveal the availability of general practitioners, internists, and family medicine doctors, all of whom play a vital role in early detection and referral.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Assessing the hours of operation, the acceptance of various insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid), and the availability of same-day appointments are crucial. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend availability, and online appointment scheduling demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing symptoms or needing follow-up care.

Standout practices in Kingston should be identified based on their commitment to preventative care, including the promotion of smoking cessation programs and the implementation of lung cancer screening protocols. Practices that actively encourage annual checkups, offer smoking cessation resources, and utilize evidence-based screening guidelines (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals) are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The presence of a dedicated nurse navigator or patient advocate within a practice can also significantly improve the patient experience, assisting with navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in modern healthcare, and its adoption in Kingston is a key factor in our analysis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, which can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The availability of telemedicine services can improve access to care, especially for individuals who live in rural areas, have mobility issues, or face transportation challenges. Assessing the extent to which local practices offer telehealth options, including video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, will be crucial.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is an essential component of their overall well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources in Kingston, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a critical factor in our assessment. The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices or partnerships with mental health providers can facilitate access to mental health support.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized oncology services within or near Kingston is a significant factor. While primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection and referral, patients diagnosed with lung cancer require access to oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. Assessing the availability of these specialists, as well as the presence of chemotherapy and radiation therapy facilities, is essential. The proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, offering advanced treatment options and clinical trials, is also a key consideration.

The Lung Cancer Score for Kingston will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. A higher score will indicate a community with greater access to primary care, a robust adoption of telemedicine, readily available mental health resources, and a strong network of oncology services. A lower score will suggest areas for improvement, such as increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine offerings, and strengthening mental health support.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of Kingston, including age, socioeconomic status, and smoking rates. These factors can influence the prevalence of lung cancer and the needs of the community. For example, a community with a higher proportion of older adults or a higher smoking rate may require more intensive screening and prevention efforts.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be presented as a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Kingston, offering valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will highlight the strengths of the community and identify areas where improvements are needed to ensure that residents have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kingston, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, providing a valuable tool for understanding the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying potential areas of need.