40322, Frenchburg, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40322, Frenchburg, Kentucky is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.51 percent of the residents in 40322 has some form of health insurance. 61.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.38 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 40322 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 674 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40322. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 604 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,045 health care providers accessible to residents in 40322, Frenchburg, Kentucky.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Frenchburg, KY (ZIP Code 40322)**

Frenchburg, Kentucky, a small community nestled in the Appalachian foothills, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing its healthcare landscape, specifically concerning lung cancer care. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of resources within ZIP code 40322, considering the factors that influence a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. The score, in this context, is a qualitative assessment based on access to care, quality of care, and supportive resources, all crucial for successful lung cancer management.

The primary challenge in Frenchburg, and rural areas in general, is limited access to specialized medical care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Data suggests that in rural Kentucky, the ratio of primary care physicians to residents is significantly lower than the national average. This scarcity extends to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, all vital in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lung cancer. Patients often face lengthy travel times to reach these specialists, creating a barrier to timely diagnosis and treatment, impacting the overall Lung Cancer Score negatively.

Primary care availability, however, plays a crucial role in mitigating some of these challenges. A strong primary care network can act as the first line of defense, providing early screening, symptom management, and referrals to specialists. The quality of primary care in Frenchburg is therefore a key determinant of its Lung Cancer Score. Assessing the quality involves evaluating the number of board-certified family physicians and internal medicine specialists, their experience, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and management.

One significant aspect of the Lung Cancer Score is the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Access to CT scanners, PET scans, and other imaging modalities is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The availability of these technologies within Frenchburg itself is likely limited. This necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers, adding to the burden on patients and potentially delaying diagnosis. The presence of a well-equipped imaging center within a reasonable distance is therefore a critical factor in improving the Lung Cancer Score.

Treatment options, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical interventions, are another critical component. The availability of these services in Frenchburg is likely minimal. Patients will need to travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities like Lexington or Ashland to receive these treatments. The distance, transportation costs, and the need for overnight stays can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and treatment adherence. This geographical barrier lowers the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is an area where Frenchburg could potentially improve its Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources, can help bridge the geographical gap and improve access to care. The degree to which primary care practices and specialists in the region have adopted telemedicine technologies, and the availability of reliable internet connectivity, are key indicators. Increased telemedicine usage would boost the Lung Cancer Score.

Supportive care resources are also essential. Lung cancer patients often experience significant emotional and psychological distress. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for managing these challenges. Assessing the availability of these services in Frenchburg and the surrounding areas is a vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of support groups, mental health professionals specializing in oncology, and access to palliative care services all contribute positively to the score.

Standout practices in the area, if any, should be identified. These practices may be known for providing high-quality primary care, offering patient-centered care, or having a strong focus on lung cancer screening and prevention. Identifying these practices, and highlighting their strengths, can help improve the overall Lung Cancer Score by providing examples of best practices. These practices might have better screening rates, more robust patient education programs, or better coordination with specialists.

Patient education and awareness campaigns are also important. The Lung Cancer Score is affected by how well the community is informed about the risks of lung cancer, the importance of early detection, and the available treatment options. Public health initiatives, community outreach programs, and educational materials can help improve awareness and encourage individuals to seek timely medical attention. The presence of these initiatives within Frenchburg can improve the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Frenchburg, KY (ZIP code 40322) is likely negatively affected by the challenges of rural healthcare. Limited access to specialists, advanced diagnostic tools, and treatment options, coupled with geographical barriers and the potential for limited supportive care resources, all contribute to a lower score. However, the presence of strong primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and community-based initiatives can help mitigate these challenges and improve the score. Continuous improvement requires addressing the physician shortage, investing in advanced technologies, and expanding access to supportive services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Frenchburg, including the location of medical facilities, specialists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of resources and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.