42054, Kirksey, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42054, Kirksey, Kentucky is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.51 percent of the residents in 42054 has some form of health insurance. 36.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.39 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 42054 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 257 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42054. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 128 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,093 health care providers accessible to residents in 42054, Kirksey, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 42054 & Kirksey Primary Care

This analysis examines the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 42054, encompassing the town of Kirksey, Kentucky, with a specific focus on primary care availability and its impact on early detection and management. The goal is to create a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare resources relevant to this disease. This score is not a single numerical value but rather a composite assessment based on several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support.

The initial assessment reveals a rural setting. This immediately suggests potential challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialists, and increased travel times for patients. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly critical. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. They are responsible for ordering initial screenings, such as chest X-rays, and referring patients to specialists for further evaluation and treatment. In Kirksey, the proximity of PCPs to the population is paramount. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and in neighboring areas, along with the average wait times for appointments.

Standout practices within the 42054 area will be identified based on several criteria. These include the availability of comprehensive services, such as on-site imaging and laboratory testing, which can streamline the diagnostic process. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs are also highly valued, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, will be considered. This involves assessing whether practices actively screen patients based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors, as recommended by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The practices will be assessed based on their adherence to these protocols.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in rural healthcare. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialist consultations and follow-up care without having to travel long distances. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which practices in 42054 utilize telemedicine platforms for patient consultations, remote monitoring, and education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients, particularly those who are elderly or have mobility limitations. The ability to connect patients with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists via telemedicine is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the 42054 area. This includes assessing whether practices have on-site therapists or counselors, or whether they have established referral networks with mental health professionals. The integration of mental health support into the overall cancer care plan is a critical component of providing holistic care. This also includes access to support groups and educational resources.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of these resources, the quality of care provided, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services within the 42054 area. The score will not be a single number but rather a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The analysis will identify areas where improvements are needed and highlight practices that are leading the way in providing high-quality lung cancer care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Kirksey will be crucial. The analysis will determine the number of PCPs serving the community, the average wait times for appointments, and the geographical distribution of these providers. This information will be used to assess the accessibility of primary care services for residents of Kirksey. The proximity of PCPs to the population is a key factor in ensuring early detection and management of lung cancer.

The analysis will also investigate the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonology and oncology, within a reasonable distance of Kirksey. While these specialists may not be located directly within the ZIP code, their proximity and accessibility are crucial for patients who require specialized care. The analysis will consider the travel times to these specialists and the availability of transportation options for patients.

The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the lung cancer care landscape in 42054 and Kirksey. This analysis will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and provide valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. The ultimate aim is to improve the early detection, treatment, and overall management of lung cancer in this community. The information gathered and analyzed will provide a foundation for future interventions and improvements in healthcare delivery.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements are needed.