40316, Denniston, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40316, Denniston, Kentucky is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.72 percent of the residents in 40316 has some form of health insurance. 44.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.66 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 40316 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40316. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 995 health care providers accessible to residents in 40316, Denniston, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Denniston, KY (ZIP Code 40316)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within ZIP Code 40316 (Denniston, Kentucky). The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to manage the initial stages of lung cancer care, including early detection and referral. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care to individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

Denniston, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas, including limited access to specialized medical care and potential disparities in healthcare delivery. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Denniston, the ratio likely reflects the broader rural healthcare shortage. A low ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is particularly concerning for lung cancer, where early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires data collection from multiple sources. Local hospitals, clinics, and state medical boards provide data that must be compiled and analyzed. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is a crucial factor. The analysis must consider the proximity of specialists to Denniston and the ease of referral from local PCPs.

The quality of primary care practices is another critical factor. Evaluating the "standout practices" involves assessing several criteria. Accreditation by recognized organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), is an indicator of adherence to quality standards. Practices that actively participate in programs focused on preventative care, like smoking cessation initiatives and lung cancer screening, are particularly valuable. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also vital. EHRs facilitate efficient communication and coordination of care, which is particularly important in managing a complex disease like lung cancer. The analysis should identify practices known for their commitment to patient education and support, offering resources like educational materials and support groups.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to improve healthcare access in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to expertise. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which PCPs in Denniston offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the technologies used. The analysis should consider the availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area, a crucial factor for successful telemedicine implementation. The analysis must also consider the reimbursement policies of insurance providers for telemedicine services.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Access to mental health resources is crucial for patients and their families. The analysis should investigate the availability of mental health professionals in Denniston and the surrounding areas. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The analysis should also consider the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for individuals with lung cancer and their caregivers. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a positive indicator, as it facilitates access to mental health support.

The analysis of lung cancer care availability in Denniston must also consider the availability of lung cancer screening programs. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals at high risk. The analysis should identify the availability of LDCT screening facilities and the practices that actively implement screening programs. The analysis should also consider the practices' adherence to screening guidelines and their protocols for managing positive screening results.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. It addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The analysis should identify the availability of palliative care specialists and services in the area.

The analysis requires a comprehensive data gathering process. This includes:

* **Data Collection:** Gathering data from local hospitals, clinics, physician directories, insurance providers, and public health agencies.
* **Practice Surveys:** Contacting local practices to gather information about services offered, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.
* **Patient Interviews:** Conducting interviews with patients (with appropriate consent) to understand their experiences with healthcare in Denniston.
* **Data Analysis:** Analyzing the collected data to identify trends, strengths, and weaknesses in the healthcare landscape.

The "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. Each factor would be weighted based on its importance in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The score would provide a single metric to represent the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in Denniston.

The findings of this analysis can be used to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation. It can identify areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources. It can also highlight best practices and successful initiatives that can be replicated.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Denniston. It underscores the importance of a holistic approach to lung cancer care, encompassing early detection, comprehensive treatment, and robust patient support. The analysis is an ongoing process, requiring continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the healthcare needs of the community are being met.

**For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Denniston and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and access to specialists, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of geographic data, allowing you to explore the healthcare landscape in detail. Click here to access CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area.**