41817, Garner, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 41817, Garner, Kentucky is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.52 percent of the residents in 41817 has some form of health insurance. 76.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.86 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 41817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 173 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 393 health care providers accessible to residents in 41817, Garner, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 41817 & Primary Care in Garner

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 41817, focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes, including primary care access in the broader Garner area. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact the early detection, treatment, and overall management of lung cancer. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape relevant to lung cancer care in this specific geographic region.

Evaluating the healthcare ecosystem begins with understanding physician density. In ZIP code 41817, the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face challenges in securing timely appointments for initial screenings or symptom evaluations. This delay can be detrimental in lung cancer cases, where early detection is paramount for improved survival rates. The analysis must therefore consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated patient population they serve. Data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used to derive these figures.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is also vital. The analysis examines the presence of standout practices within the 41817 area. These practices are identified by factors such as their accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores (obtained through surveys and reviews), and their commitment to preventative care. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as through the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients, are given higher scores. These practices often have established protocols for managing patients with suspicious findings, ensuring a streamlined pathway to diagnosis and treatment.

The analysis extends beyond the immediate ZIP code to encompass the broader Garner area, focusing on primary care availability. The accessibility of primary care physicians in surrounding communities is crucial, as patients in 41817 may seek care outside the ZIP code. Factors such as transportation infrastructure, public transit options, and the geographic distribution of primary care clinics influence access. A comprehensive assessment considers the travel time and distance patients need to travel to reach a PCP, factoring in potential barriers to care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their workflows, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and specialist consultations, receive higher scores. Telemedicine can also play a crucial role in providing access to mental health support, which is often needed by lung cancer patients and their families.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but they are essential for patient well-being. The analysis considers the availability of mental health services within the 41817 area and the integration of these services into the healthcare system. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling, or provide referrals to mental health specialists receive higher scores. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also considered, as these groups can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice for patients and their families.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. The analysis incorporates data from various sources, including public health agencies, healthcare providers, and patient surveys. The weight assigned to each factor is based on its impact on patient outcomes and the principles of evidence-based medicine. The methodology prioritizes factors that have been shown to improve early detection, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life for lung cancer patients.

This analysis assesses the specific challenges and opportunities within the 41817 ZIP code and the broader Garner area. The final Lung Cancer Score provides a snapshot of the healthcare environment, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement. The score is designed to be a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, guiding them toward informed decisions and strategic interventions. The goal is to improve the overall quality of lung cancer care in this region.

The analysis also addresses the specific challenges faced by patients in rural areas, such as limited access to specialists, transportation difficulties, and social isolation. The Lung Cancer Score takes these factors into account, recognizing the need for tailored interventions to address the unique needs of this population. The analysis considers the availability of resources such as patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing the support they need.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on lung cancer outcomes. Areas with high rates of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare often experience worse outcomes. The Lung Cancer Score incorporates data on these factors, highlighting the need for interventions that address social determinants of health. The analysis examines the availability of resources such as financial assistance programs, transportation services, and community health centers.

The Lung Cancer Score is a living document, regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The analysis is designed to be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, guiding them toward informed decisions and strategic interventions. The ultimate goal is to improve the overall quality of lung cancer care and improve patient outcomes in the 41817 ZIP code and the surrounding Garner area.

Understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources is crucial for effective planning and resource allocation. To visualize the healthcare landscape in 41817 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the data using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing physician density, primary care availability, and other relevant factors.