40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.75 percent of the residents in 40047 has some form of health insurance. 29.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.69 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 40047 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,736 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40047. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,333 health care providers accessible to residents in 40047, Mount Washington, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Washington, KY (ZIP Code 40047)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care in Mount Washington, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40047), focusing on primary care availability and the quality of healthcare resources. We aim to provide a Lung Cancer Score, though it's important to understand that a definitive score is complex and requires access to proprietary datasets. This analysis will instead offer a nuanced evaluation based on publicly available information and contextual understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt referral to specialists. This begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Mount Washington is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in Kentucky suggests a potential undersupply of primary care physicians, particularly in rural areas. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. This, in turn, negatively impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Primary care practices in Mount Washington must be evaluated for their commitment to lung cancer screening. This involves assessing their utilization of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines, which recommend annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals meeting specific criteria (age, smoking history). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings, including educating patients about the benefits and risks, are crucial.

The availability of specialists is another critical element. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Patients in Mount Washington may need to travel to Louisville or other regional centers for specialized care. Travel time, transportation costs, and the burden on patients and their families must be considered.

Standout practices in the area are those that prioritize patient education and preventative care. This includes offering smoking cessation programs, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and actively screening for lung cancer. These practices are likely to have a higher Lung Cancer Score. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient testimonials, online reviews, and potentially, interviews with local healthcare professionals.

Telemedicine adoption plays a vital role in modern healthcare, especially in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care and reduce the need for travel. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing emotional support to patients. The Lung Cancer Score benefits from practices that integrate telemedicine effectively.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care model, either through in-house services or referrals to external providers, contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

The integration of technology into healthcare is a trend that impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for better coordination of care, improved communication between providers, and easier access to patient information. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better positioned to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

The quality of local hospitals is another factor. Mount Washington is located near Louisville, which offers access to several major hospitals. The reputation of these hospitals, their cancer treatment centers, and their advanced technologies, such as radiation therapy and surgical capabilities, directly affect the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall community support system also contributes to the Lung Cancer Score. This includes the availability of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs. These resources can help patients navigate the complexities of cancer treatment and provide much-needed emotional and practical support.

Finally, the commitment to research and innovation in lung cancer care is a key indicator. The presence of clinical trials, participation in research studies, and the adoption of new treatment modalities all contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score. Practices that are at the forefront of lung cancer research and treatment are likely to provide the best possible care.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Mount Washington involves evaluating various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care practices' commitment to screening and prevention, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, technological integration, hospital quality, community support, and research involvement. While a precise numerical score requires access to specific data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mount Washington and surrounding areas. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to patients.