42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 42167 has some form of health insurance. 55.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.61 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 42167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,972 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42167. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 206 health care providers accessible to residents in 42167, Tompkinsville, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Tompkinsville, KY (ZIP Code 42167)

This analysis provides a nuanced perspective on the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Tompkinsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42167). The focus is on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This information aims to inform residents and potentially guide healthcare improvements.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. The availability of PCPs in Tompkinsville is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create challenges, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date demographic data and physician licensing information, which is often proprietary. However, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer estimates and identify potential healthcare professional shortage areas (HPSAs).

Analyzing primary care availability necessitates considering factors beyond just the number of physicians. The types of services offered, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the accessibility of the practice (e.g., physical location, hours of operation) all contribute to the overall score. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly with specialists are essential for coordinated care.

Identifying standout practices within Tompkinsville requires evaluating several criteria. These include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., on-site X-ray, access to CT scans), and the practice's commitment to preventative care, such as smoking cessation programs. Practices that actively participate in community outreach and health education initiatives also deserve recognition. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Tompkinsville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable. The availability of telehealth services for primary care visits, specialist consultations (e.g., pulmonologists, oncologists), and mental health support can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use of the telehealth platform. Practices that offer convenient and user-friendly telemedicine options will score higher.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive lung cancer care score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Evaluating mental health resources involves assessing the number of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of mental health services covered by insurance, and the existence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources will be highly regarded.

The effectiveness of lung cancer care also depends on the patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system. Clear communication, patient education, and care coordination are essential. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and support services will score higher. This includes offering educational materials, providing assistance with insurance and financial aid, and coordinating care with specialists and other healthcare providers.

Analyzing the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 42167 requires a holistic approach. It's not just about the number of doctors; it's about the quality of care, the accessibility of services, and the availability of support resources. A high score reflects a healthcare system that is well-equipped to diagnose, treat, and support patients with lung cancer. A low score indicates areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and improving access to mental health resources.

The analysis of this score is ongoing. It will require constant updates to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, including the addition of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new treatment options. This dynamic process ensures that the score remains relevant and useful for patients and healthcare providers alike.

A crucial aspect of improving healthcare in Tompkinsville is addressing the social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental conditions can significantly impact a patient's health outcomes. Healthcare providers can work with community organizations to address these factors and improve the overall health of the population.

This analysis, while comprehensive, is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Tompkinsville and to visualize this data spatially, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.