40140, Garfield, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40140, Garfield, Kentucky is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.97 percent of the residents in 40140 has some form of health insurance. 57.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.83 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 40140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 220 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 146 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 198 health care providers accessible to residents in 40140, Garfield, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Garfield, KY (40140)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within the Garfield, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40140) area, examining the availability of primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment, focusing on factors that influence early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer journey.

Garfield, Kentucky, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting the speed and convenience of accessing care. This analysis aims to highlight these challenges and identify potential strengths within the community's healthcare infrastructure.

The core of this analysis centers on primary care availability. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms potentially indicative of lung cancer. Their role in early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 40140 is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing current data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of PCPs in Garfield.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is equally important. This includes their familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to order necessary diagnostic tests, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their concerns. Assessing this requires evaluating the practices within the area. Researching local practices, including their patient reviews, the services they offer, and their affiliations with larger healthcare systems, is essential. Are there practices that stand out for their patient-centered approach or their commitment to preventative care? Identifying these "standout practices" is vital, as they can serve as models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. It can facilitate virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among Garfield's healthcare providers requires investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services available through telemedicine, and the technology infrastructure in place to support it. This could be a significant advantage for patients, reducing the need for travel and potentially speeding up the diagnosis and treatment process.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health support is, therefore, an indispensable component of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Garfield area is crucial. Assessing this involves researching the presence of mental health providers, their accessibility, and their experience in working with cancer patients. Does the local hospital or clinic offer mental health services? Are there support groups specifically for individuals affected by lung cancer? Understanding the availability and accessibility of these resources is crucial for patients' overall well-being.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP Code 40140 area must be considered. Are the PCPs and specialists concentrated in a particular area, or are they dispersed throughout the community? This geographical analysis influences access to care, especially for individuals with limited transportation options. Proximity to a hospital or specialized cancer center is also a significant factor. The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, often depends on proximity to these facilities.

The presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers or affiliations with larger cancer networks is also vital. Does Garfield have access to specialists like pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons? Are local providers connected to larger cancer networks that offer advanced treatment options and clinical trials? These connections can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Finally, the overall healthcare infrastructure of the community needs to be examined. Are there community health initiatives focused on cancer prevention and early detection? Are there resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, such as patient navigators or financial assistance programs? A comprehensive understanding of these resources is essential for supporting patients throughout their cancer journey.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in Garfield, Kentucky (40140) requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources are all essential components. Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, the presence of specialized care centers, and the overall healthcare infrastructure of the community is also vital. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment in Garfield, Kentucky, with the goal of improving access to care and ultimately, patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Garfield, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and help identify potential areas for improvement.