40419, Crab Orchard, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40419, Crab Orchard, Kentucky is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.83 percent of the residents in 40419 has some form of health insurance. 60.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.35 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 40419 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40419. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,166 health care providers accessible to residents in 40419, Crab Orchard, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Crab Orchard, KY (ZIP Code 40419)

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources in Crab Orchard, Kentucky (ZIP code 40419), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. It considers physician availability, especially primary care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all critical elements in a patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. We will evaluate the overall "Lung Cancer Score" based on these factors, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and management. This begins with accessible primary care physicians (PCPs) who can facilitate screenings, order diagnostic tests, and provide initial guidance. The physician-to-patient ratio in Crab Orchard, and Lincoln County more broadly, is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased wait times for appointments, and potentially, poorer outcomes. Researching the current ratio, comparing it to state and national averages, is vital for understanding the challenges faced by residents in accessing timely care. Publicly available data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services can provide this information.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are they concentrated in a single location, potentially creating access barriers for residents in more rural areas? Examining the geographic distribution of practices and their proximity to patient populations will illuminate potential disparities in access. This assessment should consider factors like transportation limitations and the availability of public transportation options within the community.

The quality of primary care is also a key factor. Are the PCPs in Crab Orchard up-to-date on the latest lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Do they actively encourage screening for high-risk individuals, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens? Evaluating the adoption of evidence-based practices is crucial.

Identifying standout practices within the 40419 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive preventative care, and demonstrate a commitment to early detection. This might involve reviewing online patient reviews, if available, and assessing the practices' websites for information about their approach to lung cancer screening and management. Furthermore, investigating whether any practices have established relationships with oncologists and pulmonologists in nearby cities, such as Lexington or Louisville, is essential. Strong referral networks can facilitate seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access to specialists, and provide convenient follow-up care. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals, can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes. Assessing the technological infrastructure of local practices, including their ability to conduct virtual appointments, is a key component of this evaluation.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential. The analysis should explore the availability of these resources within the community, including whether there are mental health practices or therapists accepting new patients. Furthermore, it is important to determine if there are any support groups or programs specifically designed for cancer patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score should also consider the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and access to effective cessation programs is crucial for prevention and improving outcomes for those diagnosed. The analysis should assess the availability of these programs, including their accessibility, cost, and effectiveness.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Crab Orchard, KY (40419) will be a composite measure. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the distribution of PCPs, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of support services. A higher score would indicate a more robust healthcare ecosystem, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

This analysis should not only assess the current state but also consider potential future trends. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Examining any planned expansions of healthcare facilities, the introduction of new telemedicine platforms, or initiatives to address mental health needs will be crucial for understanding the long-term outlook for lung cancer care in Crab Orchard.

Finally, the analysis should acknowledge the limitations of publicly available data. While this analysis relies on publicly accessible information, it may not capture the full picture. It is crucial to supplement this data with information from local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community members.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Crab Orchard, including the locations of practices, hospitals, and available resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful and intuitive way to visualize geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, pinpoint potential gaps in services, and make informed decisions about your healthcare.