42324, Belton, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42324, Belton, Kentucky is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.27 percent of the residents in 42324 has some form of health insurance. 44.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.25 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 42324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 198 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42324. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 858 health care providers accessible to residents in 42324, Belton, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score: Belton, KY (ZIP Code 42324) – A Data-Driven Analysis

This analysis provides a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians and healthcare resources within ZIP Code 42324 (Belton, Kentucky), focusing on factors crucial to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being in the context of lung cancer. The score considers physician availability, access to screening, mental health support, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This is not a formal medical evaluation but rather a data-driven overview designed to highlight strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Belton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent preventative screenings, and overall poorer patient outcomes. Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and publicly available sources, combined with population estimates, are used to calculate this ratio. A higher ratio will negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. The analysis examines the presence of established primary care practices within the zip code, considering factors like patient reviews, the range of services offered (including smoking cessation programs), and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening protocols for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), will receive higher marks. The analysis also considers the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable travel distance from Belton.

Lung cancer screening, particularly with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is a crucial element in early detection and improved survival rates. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of LDCT screening services in and around Belton. This includes evaluating the number of imaging centers offering LDCT scans, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall cost and insurance coverage for these screenings. Access to these services is a key factor in improving the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve patient access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The analysis considers the adoption rate of telemedicine among local primary care practices and the availability of telehealth services for specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine will receive a higher score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but vital aspect of lung cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of mental health resources in Belton, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The analysis also considers the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals. The presence of support groups and resources for patients and their families is also a positive factor.

Standout practices within Belton are identified based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratio, patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and a patient-centered approach to care will be highlighted. These standout practices serve as examples of best practices within the community and contribute positively to the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The analysis also considers the presence of community resources, such as smoking cessation programs, support groups for lung cancer patients and their families, and educational materials about lung cancer prevention and early detection. These resources play a crucial role in empowering patients and promoting a healthier community. The availability and accessibility of these resources will positively impact the score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Belton, KY (ZIP Code 42324) is a composite metric, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. The score is intended to provide a snapshot of the community’s readiness to address the challenges of lung cancer and to identify areas for improvement. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather a starting point for a more in-depth analysis and targeted interventions.

The analysis is dynamic and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the opening of new practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of new resources. Data sources, including public health data, insurance provider directories, and patient reviews, are continuously monitored to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis.

The Lung Cancer Score is a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. It can be used to inform healthcare decisions, identify areas for improvement, and advocate for better access to care. The analysis is designed to promote a collaborative approach to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Belton, KY (ZIP Code 42324) and gain a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and physician availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize the information and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.