42323, Beechmont, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42323, Beechmont, Kentucky is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 42323 has some form of health insurance. 58.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.85 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 42323 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42323. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,003 health care providers accessible to residents in 42323, Beechmont, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Beechmont, KY (ZIP Code 42323)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 42323 (Beechmont, KY) and evaluates the availability of related resources, including telemedicine, mental health support, and overall practice quality. The goal is to offer a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about lung cancer risk and care in this specific area.

The core of this assessment revolves around the ability of local PCPs to provide effective preventative care, early detection strategies, and appropriate referrals for lung cancer. This includes evaluating access to screening programs, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

A crucial factor in assessing healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. Within ZIP code 42323, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely care, including preventative screenings like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals. Publicly available data, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the specified geographic area. This data, combined with population figures for Beechmont, provides a foundational understanding of patient load per physician.

A higher physician-to-patient ratio might indicate potential challenges in accessing appointments, leading to delays in screenings and diagnostic evaluations. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially improving the chances of early detection and intervention for lung cancer. It is important to note that the physician-to-patient ratio is just one factor; other factors such as practice efficiency and appointment scheduling practices also affect access.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several key performance indicators. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, the availability of patient education materials, and the implementation of systems to track patient risk factors (smoking history, family history, etc.). Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are more likely to provide high-quality lung cancer care.

Reviewing online patient reviews, when available, can also provide valuable insights into patient experiences. While not always definitive, patient feedback can highlight strengths and weaknesses in a practice's approach to care, including communication, empathy, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize clear communication, provide accessible information, and foster a supportive environment are more likely to earn positive reviews and build trust with their patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals living in rural areas like Beechmont. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their PCPs remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially increasing the frequency of check-ups and consultations.

In the context of lung cancer care, telemedicine can be used for various purposes, including:

* **Initial consultations:** Discussing symptoms, risk factors, and screening options.
* **Follow-up appointments:** Monitoring patients after screening or treatment.
* **Patient education:** Providing information about lung cancer prevention and management.
* **Mental health support:** Connecting patients with mental health professionals.

Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be more accessible and responsive to the needs of their patients. Examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of patient portals for communication, and the integration of telehealth into the practice's workflow can provide a clear picture of their telemedicine capabilities.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, and mental health support is a critical component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the practice and the broader community is crucial.

This includes:

* **On-site mental health professionals:** Having a psychiatrist or therapist on staff can streamline access to mental health services.
* **Referral networks:** Establishing relationships with local mental health providers ensures that patients can easily access support when needed.
* **Support groups:** Facilitating or recommending support groups for patients and their families can provide a valuable source of emotional support and shared experiences.
* **Integration of mental health screening:** Incorporating mental health screening into routine check-ups can help identify patients who may benefit from additional support.

Practices that prioritize mental health support are better equipped to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with lung cancer, improving the overall well-being of their patients.

**Specific Considerations for Beechmont:**

Due to the rural nature of Beechmont, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, may be limited. This makes the role of the PCP even more critical in coordinating care, providing referrals, and ensuring that patients receive timely access to the necessary services.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of Beechmont, including the prevalence of smoking and other risk factors for lung cancer. Understanding the specific needs of the community allows for a more targeted assessment of healthcare resources and the development of effective strategies for prevention and early detection.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score:**

Based on the factors discussed above, a Lung Cancer Score can be assigned to each PCP and practice within ZIP code 42323. This score would reflect their performance across various categories, including access to care, screening practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

This score is not intended to be a definitive judgment but rather a comparative tool to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of lung cancer care in Beechmont, KY (ZIP code 42323). By assessing physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, individuals can gain a better understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about their health.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of healthcare access and resources in Beechmont and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing data and understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare services. Visit CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.