40486, Tyner, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 40486, Tyner, Kentucky is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.59 percent of the residents in 40486 has some form of health insurance. 47.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.73 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 40486 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,066 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40486. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 119 health care providers accessible to residents in 40486, Tyner, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Tyner, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40486)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape within and surrounding Tyner, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40486), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the availability and quality of care, particularly for individuals facing or at risk of this serious disease. The evaluation considers primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Tyner, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced preventative screenings, and overall poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved patient management. Data on the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 40486 ZIP code, and the surrounding counties, is essential. This data should be compared against the population demographics to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the distribution of these physicians. Are they concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the area? This distribution impacts accessibility, particularly for individuals with limited transportation options.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis should investigate the practices of primary care physicians in the area. Are they up-to-date on the latest lung cancer screening guidelines, such as those from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Do they actively encourage and facilitate screenings for high-risk individuals, including those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens? The implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor. EHRs facilitate information sharing, potentially improving care coordination between primary care physicians and specialists. Practices that have adopted comprehensive EHR systems may receive a higher score.

Specialized care is another vital component. While Tyner may not have a dedicated oncology center, the proximity to such facilities is crucial. The analysis should identify the closest hospitals or clinics offering oncology services, including pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The distance to these facilities, and the ease of access (e.g., availability of transportation), significantly impact the patient experience. Furthermore, the quality of these specialized services should be evaluated. This includes assessing the experience of the medical professionals, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as PET scans and advanced imaging), and the range of treatment options offered (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies).

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Tyner. The analysis must assess the adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists serving the area. Are virtual consultations available? Are remote monitoring systems used to track patient progress? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate vicinity. Practices that have embraced telemedicine should receive a higher score.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore essential. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health services in Tyner and the surrounding areas. Are there therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or provide support to cancer patients? Are support groups available? Access to mental health services is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that can arise during treatment. The availability of these resources should be factored into the overall score.

Standout practices within the area should be highlighted. These could include clinics with a strong focus on preventative care, those with a high rate of lung cancer screenings, or those that have demonstrated a commitment to patient education and support. Identifying these practices can help patients make informed choices about their care. The analysis should identify any practices that are particularly well-regarded by patients, as evidenced by online reviews or other feedback mechanisms.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It will not be a single number but a nuanced assessment, providing a holistic view of the healthcare landscape in and around Tyner. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the rationale behind the assessment.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for individuals seeking information about lung cancer care in Tyner. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should always consult with their physicians to discuss their individual health needs and treatment options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the available resources, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tyner, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers detailed geographic visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore the information presented in this analysis in a user-friendly and interactive format. Access CartoChrome maps to visualize the healthcare resources in Tyner and surrounding areas.