40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 40374 has some form of health insurance. 56.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.82 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 40374 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 692 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40374. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 363 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,742 health care providers accessible to residents in 40374, Sharpsburg, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sharpsburg, KY (ZIP Code 40374)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg, Kentucky (ZIP code 40374) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis will focus on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact, playing a crucial role in early detection through screening recommendations and symptom management. In Sharpsburg, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric, provides insight into the accessibility of these essential providers. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from publicly available sources and healthcare directories will be analyzed to determine this ratio for the area.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and scope of services offered by primary care practices are paramount. Do practices offer comprehensive physical examinations, including smoking cessation counseling? Do they actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, such as those with a history of smoking? These are critical considerations. The analysis will investigate the types of services offered by practices within the ZIP code, examining their commitment to preventative care and patient education.

The presence of specialists is another crucial element. While Sharpsburg is a relatively small community, the proximity to specialized care is vital. The analysis will assess the distance to the nearest pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Access to these specialists is essential for accurate diagnosis, staging, and the development of individualized treatment plans. This will involve mapping the locations of these specialists relative to Sharpsburg and evaluating transportation options for patients.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare can be challenging. Telemedicine offers the potential to connect patients with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The analysis will investigate the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists serving the Sharpsburg area. Are virtual consultations offered? Are remote monitoring systems in place? These factors can significantly impact the convenience and accessibility of care.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are, therefore, an integral component of comprehensive care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within Sharpsburg and the surrounding areas. Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? Are there resources specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients and their families?

Evaluating these factors, a 'Lung Cancer Score' can be formulated. This score is not a single, definitive number but a composite assessment based on the following weighted criteria:

* **Primary Care Accessibility (30%):** Physician-to-patient ratio, appointment wait times, and the breadth of services offered by primary care practices.
* **Specialist Availability (25%):** Proximity to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, and ease of access.
* **Telemedicine Adoption (15%):** The extent to which telemedicine is utilized by primary care and specialist practices.
* **Mental Health Resources (20%):** Availability of mental health services and support groups specifically for cancer patients.
* **Preventative Care Initiatives (10%):** Promotion of lung cancer screenings and smoking cessation programs.

Each criterion will be scored based on available data, and the weighted scores will be combined to produce an overall 'Lung Cancer Score'. The higher the score, the better the overall healthcare environment for lung cancer patients in Sharpsburg. This score provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of healthcare in the area.

Standout practices will be identified based on their commitment to patient care and preventative measures. These practices may demonstrate excellence in areas such as:

* **Proactive screening:** Implementing systems to identify and screen eligible patients for lung cancer.
* **Patient education:** Providing comprehensive information about lung cancer, risk factors, and treatment options.
* **Care coordination:** Facilitating communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers.
* **Telemedicine integration:** Utilizing telemedicine to enhance patient access to care and improve convenience.
* **Mental health support:** Integrating mental health services into their care model.

The identification of these standout practices can serve as a benchmark for other providers in the area, encouraging the adoption of best practices and ultimately improving the quality of care for all patients.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' for Sharpsburg, KY, will be presented, along with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement. This analysis provides a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharpsburg, and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of data visualization. **Click here to learn more about CartoChrome maps, which can help you visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care in Sharpsburg and beyond.**