40070, Sulphur, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.56 percent of the residents in 40070 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.63 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 40070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky.

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 40070 ZIP code, focusing on their preparedness to address lung cancer risk factors, early detection, and patient support. It also examines primary care availability in Sulphur, Kentucky, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. This assessment aims to offer insights into the quality of care available to residents, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is not a single, quantifiable number. Instead, it's a composite assessment based on several key indicators. These indicators include the presence of smoking cessation programs, adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines (particularly for high-risk individuals), the availability of diagnostic tools, the integration of mental health services, and the accessibility of care, including telemedicine options. The score also considers the physician-to-patient ratio, which impacts the time and attention a PCP can dedicate to each patient.

Assessing the 40070 ZIP code, we find a mixed landscape. Sulphur, Kentucky, is a relatively small community, and primary care availability is a crucial factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can strain resources and limit the time available for preventative care, including lung cancer screenings and counseling. A low ratio, conversely, can indicate better access and more individualized attention. Specific data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 40070 would be required for a precise score, but a general understanding of the local healthcare landscape is essential.

Standout practices within the area would ideally demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening. This involves actively identifying and counseling patients at high risk, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens. They should be utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, following the guidelines established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These guidelines recommend annual LDCT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Sulphur. It allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and even the delivery of smoking cessation counseling. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for these services, would receive a higher score. This is particularly important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments or those who require frequent monitoring.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial component. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site counseling, referrals to mental health professionals, or integrated mental health services within their care model would receive a higher score. Addressing the psychological impact of a diagnosis is vital for patient well-being and treatment adherence.

Specific practices within the 40070 ZIP code would need to be examined individually to determine their Lung Cancer Score. The evaluation would involve assessing their adherence to screening guidelines, the availability of smoking cessation programs, their telemedicine capabilities, and their integration of mental health services. Information on these factors can be obtained through practice websites, patient reviews, and direct inquiries.

Primary care availability in Sulphur, Kentucky, is intimately linked to the Lung Cancer Score. If access to PCPs is limited, it can negatively impact early detection and preventative care. A robust primary care system with readily available appointments and a sufficient number of physicians is essential for ensuring that patients receive timely screenings and counseling. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a factor, though these specialists are often located in larger cities and may require travel.

The assessment of primary care availability must also consider the accessibility of services for all residents. This includes factors like insurance acceptance, language accessibility, and the availability of transportation. Practices that are accessible to a diverse patient population would receive a higher score. This ensures that all residents have an equal opportunity to receive the care they need, regardless of their background or circumstances.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in the 40070 ZIP code is a multifaceted assessment that considers various factors, including screening practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and overall access to care. The availability of primary care in Sulphur is a crucial element, as it directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely screenings and preventative care. While a precise score requires detailed data on each practice, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key components of a high-quality lung cancer care model. Understanding these elements can empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and seek out practices that prioritize their well-being.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sulphur, Kentucky, including the location of primary care physicians, their specialties, and other relevant data points, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a geographic representation of healthcare resources, helping you identify the practices that best meet your needs.