42157, Mount Hermon, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42157, Mount Hermon, Kentucky is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.47 percent of the residents in 42157 has some form of health insurance. 31.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.63 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 42157 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 240 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42157. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 44 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 865 health care providers accessible to residents in 42157, Mount Hermon, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mount Hermon, KY (ZIP Code 42157)

Analyzing healthcare resources within ZIP code 42157, encompassing the community of Mount Hermon, Kentucky, requires a multi-faceted approach. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection and management, such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the community's preparedness to address this serious disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Mount Hermon is crucial. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Kentucky Department for Public Health should be consulted to determine the number of primary care physicians actively serving the population of 42157. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially delay appointments, impacting timely screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility. This data, however, needs further refinement.

Merely counting physicians is insufficient. We must also consider the specific expertise and experience of these providers. Are they board-certified in family medicine, internal medicine, or other relevant specialties? Do they have a demonstrated history of actively screening for lung cancer, including ordering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients? Researching the practices within the ZIP code, including their websites and patient reviews, can reveal information about their approach to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and patient education initiatives. Identifying "standout practices" that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including lung cancer screening and management, is vital. These practices might be recognized for their patient-centered approach, their use of evidence-based guidelines, and their proactive outreach to high-risk populations.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Mount Hermon is a key factor in our analysis. Does the community have access to telehealth services for primary care consultations, specialist referrals, and follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, making it easier for patients to connect with healthcare providers, receive timely advice, and access specialized care, potentially improving lung cancer outcomes. Researching the availability of telehealth platforms used by local practices and hospitals is essential. This includes examining the types of services offered, the ease of use, and the accessibility for patients with limited internet access or technological literacy.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral component of our "Lung Cancer Score." Are mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, readily available in the community or nearby? Do local practices integrate mental health services into their care models? Access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer treatment. Investigating the presence of mental health providers, the availability of support groups, and the referral pathways between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is crucial.

Furthermore, it is essential to assess the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are critical for prevention and improving patient outcomes. Do local practices offer smoking cessation counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, or referrals to specialized programs? Are there community-based initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco use? The presence and accessibility of these resources directly impact the community's ability to address the root cause of lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mount Hermon will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It is not a simple numerical score but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare resources. The score will reflect the community's preparedness to address lung cancer, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and smoking cessation resources. A higher score indicates a more robust healthcare infrastructure, suggesting a greater capacity to detect, diagnose, and manage lung cancer effectively. Conversely, a lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed to enhance patient outcomes.

To accurately assess the "Lung Cancer Score," a comprehensive data collection and analysis process is necessary. This includes gathering information from public health agencies, healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community organizations. The information gathered should be verified and cross-referenced to ensure accuracy. This data will then be analyzed to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be presented with a detailed explanation of the methodology and the rationale behind the assessment.

The final assessment should also include recommendations for improvement. These might include suggestions for increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, and promoting smoking cessation programs. The recommendations should be tailored to the specific needs of the community and should be feasible and sustainable.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for Mount Hermon, KY (ZIP code 42157) is a vital step in understanding the community's healthcare landscape. By evaluating the availability and accessibility of key resources, we can identify areas for improvement and work towards enhancing the community's ability to address this devastating disease.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Mount Hermon, KY, and other areas, and to gain deeper insights into the factors influencing lung cancer outcomes, we encourage you to explore the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome's interactive maps can help you visualize physician distribution, access to healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members.