40312, Clay City, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40312, Clay City, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 40312 has some form of health insurance. 56.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.40 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 40312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,230 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40312. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 964 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,937 health care providers accessible to residents in 40312, Clay City, Kentucky.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Clay City, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40312)**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Clay City, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40312), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, specifically assessing the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem and its capacity to support patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

Clay City, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Access to specialized medical care often requires travel to larger regional centers. Therefore, the strength of the primary care infrastructure and the integration of technology become crucial factors in the overall quality of care.

**Primary Care Availability in Clay City**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for most patients, playing a vital role in early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of chronic conditions, including lung cancer. The availability of PCPs in Clay City is a critical determinant of the overall healthcare score. A limited number of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and delayed diagnoses.

The patient-to-physician ratio is a key metric in assessing primary care availability. A high ratio indicates that each physician is responsible for a large patient population, potentially straining their ability to provide timely and thorough care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more personalized attention. Data from relevant sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the American Medical Association, and local hospital networks will be analyzed to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio in the 40312 ZIP code.

The proximity of primary care clinics to residents is another important factor. Conveniently located clinics reduce travel time and transportation barriers, making it easier for patients to access care. The presence of multiple clinics within the community enhances competition, potentially leading to improved quality of care and patient satisfaction.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

The physician-to-patient ratio in Clay City is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a larger number of patients per physician, can result in longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater access to care and the potential for more personalized attention.

Analyzing the ratio involves identifying the total number of primary care physicians practicing within the 40312 ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and local healthcare providers will be combined to calculate this ratio accurately. This ratio will be benchmarked against state and national averages to provide context and evaluate the relative accessibility of primary care in Clay City.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Providers**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the provision of comprehensive services. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and provide a range of services, including preventative screenings and chronic disease management, are considered highly valuable.

Healthcare providers with a demonstrated commitment to patient education and community outreach will be viewed favorably. Practices that actively participate in local health initiatives and provide educational resources about lung cancer prevention and early detection are considered valuable assets to the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate ongoing monitoring of patients. The extent to which healthcare providers in Clay City have adopted telemedicine will be assessed.

The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, pulmonology, and oncology is particularly relevant to lung cancer care. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to online patient portals are considered to be forward-thinking and patient-centered.

The technology infrastructure within the community is another important factor. Reliable internet access is essential for successful telemedicine implementation. The availability of high-speed internet throughout the 40312 ZIP code will be assessed to determine the feasibility of telemedicine adoption.

**Mental Health Resources**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources in Clay City is therefore an important consideration.

Assessing mental health resources involves identifying the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health programs is also considered.

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a positive indicator. This approach allows for early identification and intervention for patients experiencing mental health challenges. The availability of referrals to mental health specialists and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and mental health providers are important factors.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in Clay City, Kentucky, presents both challenges and opportunities for lung cancer care. While the size of the community may limit the availability of specialized services, the strength of the primary care infrastructure, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the assessment of telemedicine adoption, and the evaluation of mental health resources provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare ecosystem in the 40312 ZIP code. This information can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Clay City and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, telemedicine availability, and mental health resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a deeper dive into the data and a more informed understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.