31050, Knoxville, Georgia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 31050, Knoxville, Georgia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.70 percent of the residents in 31050 has some form of health insurance. 38.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.68 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 31050 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 30 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31050. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,487 health care providers accessible to residents in 31050, Knoxville, Georgia.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis of Healthcare Resources in Designated Areas

This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within two distinct geographical areas: physicians in ZIP Code 31050 (likely a rural area) and primary care availability in Knoxville, Tennessee (a more urban setting). The score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This information is crucial for patients, particularly those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer, as timely access to quality care significantly impacts outcomes.

**ZIP Code 31050: A Rural Landscape of Healthcare**

Assessing healthcare in ZIP Code 31050 necessitates acknowledging the inherent challenges of rural healthcare delivery. Population density is typically lower, leading to potential shortages of specialists and primary care physicians. The "Lung Cancer Score" for this area will be influenced heavily by these factors.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised access to specialized care. This ZIP code's score will be negatively impacted if the physician-to-patient ratio is significantly higher than the national average. A high ratio necessitates a deeper dive into understanding how the existing healthcare infrastructure supports the community.

Standout practices are essential in a rural setting. The presence of a well-equipped clinic, a hospital with a dedicated oncology department, or a practice known for its commitment to early detection and patient-centered care can significantly elevate the "Lung Cancer Score." The analysis will examine the quality of these facilities, considering factors such as the availability of advanced imaging technology (CT scans, PET scans), access to experienced pulmonologists and oncologists, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols.

Telemedicine adoption is potentially a game-changer in rural areas. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive virtual follow-up appointments, and access educational resources online can mitigate some of the geographical barriers to care. The score will reflect the availability and utilization of telemedicine services, assessing the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors) in the area, as well as the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources to address the emotional needs of patients and their families.

**Primary Care Availability in Knoxville, Tennessee: A City of Healthcare Options**

Knoxville, with its larger population and more developed healthcare infrastructure, presents a different set of considerations. The "Lung Cancer Score" for Knoxville will reflect the diversity and accessibility of primary care services, as well as the availability of specialized oncology care.

Physician-to-patient ratios in Knoxville are likely to be more favorable than in ZIP Code 31050, but disparities may still exist depending on the specific neighborhoods and demographics. The analysis will consider the distribution of primary care physicians across the city, ensuring that all residents have reasonable access to care. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and other safety-net providers will be evaluated, as these facilities often serve vulnerable populations.

Standout practices in Knoxville will be identified based on their reputation, the quality of their services, and their commitment to patient-centered care. The analysis will consider factors such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs), the implementation of patient portals, and the availability of comprehensive care coordination services. The presence of practices that specialize in lung cancer screening and early detection will be particularly important.

Telemedicine adoption in Knoxville is likely to be more widespread than in rural areas, but the extent of its integration into primary care practices will still be assessed. The analysis will examine the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access for patients, and the extent to which telemedicine is used to improve care coordination and patient outcomes.

Mental health resources in Knoxville are expected to be more readily available than in ZIP Code 31050, but the quality and accessibility of these resources will still be evaluated. The analysis will consider the availability of mental health professionals, the presence of specialized mental health programs for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and other resources will also be evaluated.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a single number but a composite evaluation reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare resources in each area. The score will be influenced by factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

The analysis will aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in each area, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas where improvements are needed. This information is crucial for patients seeking care, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare options. It also provides valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers, helping them to identify and address gaps in care and to improve the overall quality of healthcare delivery.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in these areas, we encourage you to utilize the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers an interactive platform to explore geographical data, identify healthcare providers, and assess access to resources. By utilizing CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.