40036, Lockport, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40036, Lockport, Kentucky is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.22 percent of the residents in 40036 has some form of health insurance. 50.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.01 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 40036 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40036. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 167 health care providers accessible to residents in 40036, Lockport, Kentucky.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 40036 & Primary Care Availability in Lockport**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Lockport, Kentucky, specifically focusing on those practicing within ZIP code 40036. The aim is to assess factors relevant to lung cancer screening and treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This information is vital for patients seeking timely and comprehensive care, particularly given the importance of early detection in lung cancer outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Lockport, a community within Oldham County, presents a unique healthcare landscape that warrants careful examination. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau will be crucial in determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 40036 ZIP code. This data must be cross-referenced with the number of active PCPs, considering factors such as age, specialization, and practice type (e.g., solo practice, group practice, hospital-affiliated).

Standout practices within the 40036 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive lung cancer screening. This includes practices that actively encourage smoking cessation, offer low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings for eligible patients (based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors), and have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient risk factors, schedule screenings, and coordinate care are also highly valued. The presence of certified lung cancer screening centers within or easily accessible from the 40036 ZIP code is a significant advantage, as these centers adhere to rigorous quality standards.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers significant benefits, especially in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to care by reducing travel time and costs, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms, medication management, and access to support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering both video and phone consultations, are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care. The availability of telemedicine also impacts the ability of patients to get second opinions from specialists.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is increasingly recognized as essential. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral relationships with mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients' overall well-being. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide individual or group therapy, as well as medication management. The integration of mental health services can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and enhance their quality of life.

Specific practices within the 40036 ZIP code will be evaluated based on their adherence to these criteria. The analysis will identify those that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in primary care, particularly regarding lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. This will involve reviewing publicly available information, such as practice websites, patient reviews, and data from healthcare rating organizations. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement will be given special consideration.

The assessment will also consider the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the broader Lockport and Oldham County area. The proximity of these specialists is crucial for patients requiring advanced diagnostic testing, treatment, and follow-up care. The analysis will examine the referral patterns of PCPs in the 40036 ZIP code to ensure that patients have timely access to the specialists they need. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance from Lockport is also a significant factor, as these centers typically offer a full range of services, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. This includes the percentage of the population with health insurance, the level of income, and the availability of transportation. Patients who face financial or logistical barriers to care may be less likely to seek timely screenings or treatment. The analysis will identify any programs or initiatives that are in place to address these barriers, such as financial assistance programs or transportation services.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in the 40036 ZIP code will be a composite score based on all of the factors discussed above. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the availability and quality of primary care in the area, specifically concerning lung cancer. The score will be a valuable resource for patients seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary care access and delivery. The pandemic has led to significant changes in healthcare practices, including increased use of telemedicine and a greater emphasis on infection control. The analysis will assess how PCPs in the 40036 ZIP code have adapted to these changes and whether they have been able to maintain or improve the quality of care.

For a detailed, interactive map of physician locations, practice details, and other relevant healthcare data in the Lockport area, including the 40036 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore the resources offered by CartoChrome maps. Access this data to make informed decisions about your healthcare.