41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.06 percent of the residents in 41262 has some form of health insurance. 45.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.64 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 41262 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 238 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41262. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 252 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,807 health care providers accessible to residents in 41262, Tomahawk, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Tomahawk, KY (ZIP Code 41262)

This analysis assesses the availability of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the Tomahawk, Kentucky area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 41262. We evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the community's capacity to address the needs of individuals affected by this disease.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care begins with robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referral to specialists are critical. In Tomahawk (41262), the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Research into the current ratio within the specified ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially local hospital systems should be consulted to determine the approximate number of PCPs practicing within the area and the overall population. This data will help establish the physician-to-patient ratio, a vital indicator of access.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices in Tomahawk is key to understanding the quality of care available. This involves evaluating factors such as the practice's commitment to preventive care, their use of electronic health records (EHRs), and their participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals, are particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, practices that have streamlined referral processes to pulmonologists and oncologists demonstrate a commitment to efficient patient care. Research into local hospital systems, such as the Tug Valley ARH Regional Medical Center, and independent practices is necessary to identify these standout practices.

**Specialist Access: Pulmonologists and Oncologists:**

Beyond primary care, access to specialists is paramount. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment necessitate timely consultations with pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) and oncologists (cancer specialists). Assessing the availability of these specialists within or near Tomahawk is critical. This includes determining the number of pulmonologists and oncologists serving the area, their wait times for appointments, and their affiliations with local hospitals. The proximity of specialists in nearby cities, such as Ashland or Huntington, West Virginia, should also be considered. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses specializing in oncology, further enhances the Lung Cancer Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution for overcoming geographical barriers in rural areas like Tomahawk. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption by local healthcare providers is crucial. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists who may not be readily available locally. Research should focus on identifying practices that utilize telemedicine platforms and the types of services they offer remotely.

**Mental Health Resources: Supporting the Patient Journey:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is an essential component of comprehensive care. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals in Tomahawk, their specialization in oncology or chronic illness, and the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients is crucial. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health providers can ensure patients receive holistic care. This can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

**Overall Assessment and Score:**

Based on the factors discussed, a "Lung Cancer Score" can be formulated. This score would be a composite metric, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare resources available in Tomahawk. The score would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Each component would be weighted based on its relative importance to lung cancer care. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

**Specific Considerations for Tomahawk:**

Given the potential for rural healthcare challenges in Tomahawk, specific considerations are essential. Transportation limitations may affect access to specialists and treatment centers. Public transportation options and the availability of patient transportation services should be investigated. Furthermore, the socioeconomic status of the community can impact access to care. Healthcare providers should be aware of financial assistance programs and resources to help patients afford treatment and medications.

**Data Sources and Methodology:**

The analysis relies on a combination of data sources. Publicly available information from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides baseline data on physician distribution and population demographics. Local hospital systems, such as Tug Valley ARH Regional Medical Center, can provide information on specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and community outreach programs. Surveys of local healthcare providers and interviews with community members can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and access to care.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the healthcare resources available for lung cancer patients in Tomahawk, Kentucky (41262). By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing specialist access, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources, we can create a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the community's capacity to address this disease. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies and programs that enhance the quality of care for lung cancer patients in Tomahawk.

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