40022, Finchville, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40022, Finchville, Kentucky is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.58 percent of the residents in 40022 has some form of health insurance. 25.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.39 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 40022 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40022. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,338 health care providers accessible to residents in 40022, Finchville, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Finchville, KY (ZIP Code 40022)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within the 40022 ZIP code, specifically focusing on primary care availability and related healthcare resources in Finchville, Kentucky. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of care relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and support for individuals potentially facing lung cancer. The assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon accessible and quality primary care. In Finchville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of primary care physicians relative to the population, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and diminished overall patient care. Determining the exact ratio necessitates accessing up-to-date demographic data for the 40022 ZIP code, combined with a comprehensive list of practicing primary care physicians within the area. Publicly available sources, such as the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, can be leveraged to identify licensed physicians. Further research is needed to determine if the ratio is above or below the national average and how this impacts patient access.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Finchville requires evaluating their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. This involves assessing whether practices adhere to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, which recommend annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for individuals meeting specific criteria (age, smoking history). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, coupled with robust follow-up protocols for abnormal findings, deserve recognition. This can be determined through online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct inquiries.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Finchville. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine integration involves assessing whether primary care practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care, which is especially important for patients managing chronic conditions or those facing mobility challenges.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis can be profound. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within the Finchville area or nearby. Assessing the availability involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating their specialties and expertise, and determining their capacity to provide support to patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health services, ensuring that patients receive the necessary support to navigate the emotional challenges associated with lung cancer.

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance from Finchville is another important consideration. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, timely access to specialists is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. Evaluating the proximity of specialists involves identifying hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas, assessing the availability of specialist appointments, and evaluating the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists. Proximity to a comprehensive cancer center, offering advanced treatment options and clinical trials, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the overall healthcare infrastructure in Finchville plays a role. This includes the presence of hospitals with advanced imaging capabilities (CT scanners, PET scanners), access to smoking cessation programs, and the availability of support groups for patients and their families. Hospitals that have implemented patient navigation programs, designed to guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, can improve patient experience and outcomes. The presence of these resources indicates a more robust healthcare ecosystem capable of supporting individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The analysis also considers the availability of patient education materials and resources. Primary care practices should provide patients with clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. This can include brochures, online resources, and educational programs. Practices that actively engage in patient education empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score for Finchville is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare landscape. This requires ongoing monitoring and data collection. The score should also be transparent, allowing patients to understand the factors that contribute to the assessment.

The overall picture of lung cancer care in Finchville, Kentucky, is dependent on a complex interplay of factors. Primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, access to mental health resources, and the proximity of specialists all contribute to the overall Lung Cancer Score. By analyzing these factors, it is possible to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals in Finchville have access to the best possible care, from early detection and diagnosis to treatment and support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Finchville, including the location of primary care physicians, hospitals, and specialists, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a detailed geographic representation of healthcare resources, helping you visualize the accessibility of care in your community.