42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.13 percent of the residents in 42140 has some form of health insurance. 63.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.74 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 42140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 351 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 168 health care providers accessible to residents in 42140, Gamaliel, Kentucky.

The analysis of lung cancer care in Gamaliel, Kentucky, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering the interplay of physician availability, healthcare resources, and patient access. This report will delve into the specifics of the 42140 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, the presence of specialized lung cancer care, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment. The limitations of this analysis include the reliance on publicly available data, which may not fully capture the nuances of individual practices or patient experiences.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy lies in robust primary care. In Gamaliel, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs for a given population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for those at risk. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the early detection of lung cancer, which is critical for successful treatment. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 42140 is essential to begin the assessment. Publicly available sources, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide preliminary data, but this should be supplemented by local surveys and healthcare provider directories for a more accurate picture.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. The degree to which PCPs are actively screening patients based on these guidelines is a key indicator of quality. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education, should be considered favorably in the Lung Cancer Score. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can streamline communication and improve care coordination, positively influencing the score.

Identifying standout practices within the 42140 ZIP code involves evaluating their commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This assessment goes beyond the availability of PCPs and considers the presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. The proximity to specialized cancer centers or hospitals with advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and surgical oncology, is a significant factor. Practices that collaborate effectively with these specialists, facilitating seamless referrals and care coordination, should receive higher scores. The availability of multidisciplinary tumor boards, where specialists discuss individual patient cases, is a positive indicator of comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Gamaliel. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists can significantly improve access to care, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for consultations and follow-up appointments. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education resources should be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. Telemedicine can also play a crucial role in providing access to specialists who may not be physically located in the immediate area. The availability of telehealth services, particularly for oncology consultations, is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health support is an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, is critical for patients navigating the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health providers should be considered favorably. The integration of mental health screenings into routine care can help identify patients who may benefit from additional support. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the availability and accessibility of these crucial resources.

The specific data required to calculate the Lung Cancer Score for Gamaliel includes the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of PCPs offering lung cancer screening, the availability of pulmonologists and oncologists, the presence of telemedicine services, and the availability of mental health support. The score can be calculated using a weighted system, assigning points to each factor based on its relative importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might receive a significant weight, while the availability of online patient education resources might receive a smaller weight. The final score would then reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the 42140 ZIP code.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in the area. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and smoking prevalence can influence the incidence of lung cancer and the need for specialized care. Addressing these factors is essential for providing equitable access to care. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the ability of healthcare providers to address the specific needs of the population they serve.

In conclusion, assessing lung cancer care in Gamaliel, Kentucky, requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The Lung Cancer Score provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care within the 42140 ZIP code. By considering these factors, we can better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, cancer care facilities, and demographic information, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a detailed geographic overview of healthcare resources in the 42140 ZIP code, offering valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.