The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42261, Morgantown, Kentucky is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 87.81 percent of the residents in 42261 has some form of health insurance. 46.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.31 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 42261 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,492 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42261. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,642 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 232 health care providers accessible to residents in 42261, Morgantown, Kentucky.
Health Scores in 42261, Morgantown, Kentucky
Lung Cancer Score | 10 |
---|---|
People Score | 20 |
Provider Score | 57 |
Hospital Score | 15 |
Travel Score | 26 |
42261 | Morgantown | Kentucky | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Morgantown, KY (ZIP Code 42261)**
This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis and treatment within Morgantown, Kentucky (ZIP code 42261), focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a Lung Cancer Score, reflecting the community's preparedness for managing this significant health challenge.
Morgantown, a small city in Butler County, faces the common healthcare challenges of rural communities. Limited access to specialists, geographic barriers, and resource constraints can impact the timely diagnosis and treatment of complex conditions like lung cancer. This analysis will delve into the specifics to create a more comprehensive understanding.
**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in strong primary care. Early detection, through screening and prompt referral, significantly improves outcomes. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. National averages can be misleading; local realities are critical. In Morgantown, the ratio likely reflects the broader challenges of rural healthcare. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors for the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnostic procedures. This impacts the Lung Cancer Score negatively.
Data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside information from local hospitals and clinics, would be essential to determine the precise ratio. We would need to understand the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the population they serve. Furthermore, the availability of advanced practice providers (APPs), such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, is a critical factor. The presence of APPs can mitigate the impact of a low physician-to-patient ratio.
**Standout Practices and Specialization**
The presence of practices with specialized expertise in lung cancer management is a major factor. While Morgantown is a smaller community, the availability of specialists, even if they are accessed via referral, is vital. Are there pulmonologists or oncologists who regularly see patients from the area? Are there practices that offer advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening?
Analyzing the services offered by local hospitals and clinics, along with the affiliations of primary care physicians, is essential. Does the local hospital have a dedicated oncology unit or a partnership with a larger cancer center in a nearby city? The presence of accredited cancer programs, adhering to standards set by organizations like the American College of Surgeons, would significantly boost the Lung Cancer Score.
**Telemedicine Adoption**
Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It offers a way to overcome geographic barriers and provide access to specialists who may not be physically present in Morgantown. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists is a positive indicator.
Are local physicians using telemedicine platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, or remote monitoring? Does the local hospital offer telehealth services? The ability to access specialists via telemedicine can expedite diagnosis and treatment planning. The Lung Cancer Score benefits from robust telemedicine infrastructure.
**Mental Health Resources**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is essential for patient well-being. Does Morgantown have mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are these professionals integrated into the healthcare system, offering services to patients undergoing cancer treatment?
The presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care is critical. The ability of primary care physicians to refer patients to mental health services and the integration of mental health support within cancer treatment protocols are positive factors. The Lung Cancer Score is directly impacted by the availability and accessibility of these vital resources.
**Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**
The Lung Cancer Score for Morgantown, KY (42261) would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed. It would incorporate the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices and specialists, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a community better prepared to address the challenges of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support.
The score would not be a static number. It would evolve as the healthcare landscape changes, reflecting improvements in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of support services. The score should be a dynamic tool, guiding healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members in their efforts to improve lung cancer outcomes.
**Conclusion**
The healthcare environment in Morgantown presents both challenges and opportunities in the fight against lung cancer. While the specific Lung Cancer Score would depend on detailed data collection and analysis, the factors discussed here offer a framework for understanding the community's strengths and weaknesses. Addressing the identified gaps – increasing physician availability, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and ensuring access to mental health support – is crucial for improving outcomes for individuals affected by this disease.
**Call to Action:**
To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Morgantown, KY (42261), and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can visualize physician locations, hospital services, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for healthcare professionals, patients, and community planners. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps today.
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