42347, Hartford, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42347, Hartford, Kentucky is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.54 percent of the residents in 42347 has some form of health insurance. 45.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.90 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 42347 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,348 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42347. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,078 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 816 health care providers accessible to residents in 42347, Hartford, Kentucky.

The following analysis provides a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians within the 42347 ZIP code (Hartford, Kentucky), with a focus on factors relevant to early detection and patient support in the context of lung cancer. This score is a theoretical construct designed to highlight key areas of consideration, and should not be interpreted as a definitive ranking or endorsement.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection. This begins with a robust primary care system capable of identifying individuals at high risk and initiating appropriate screening. In the 42347 area, the availability and accessibility of primary care are critical. Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis would examine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and compare it to the total population. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) would be crucial in determining this ratio and identifying potential areas of underserved populations.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality and organization of primary care practices significantly influence the "Lung Cancer Score." Standout practices would demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, particularly for patients meeting the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines (e.g., current smokers, former smokers who quit within the past 15 years, and those with a 20-pack-year smoking history). This includes actively identifying eligible patients, educating them about the benefits and risks of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening, and facilitating the screening process. The practices' adherence to screening guidelines, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for tracking patient risk factors and screening results, and the efficiency of referral pathways to pulmonologists and other specialists are all key considerations.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Hartford. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for routine follow-ups, medication management, and even initial screenings can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce barriers to care. The "Lung Cancer Score" would assess the extent to which practices utilize telehealth platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technical support for patients. Telemedicine also plays a role in connecting patients to specialists, such as pulmonologists, located outside of the immediate area.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are integral to the well-being of patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Lung cancer, in particular, can be associated with significant psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The "Lung Cancer Score" would evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referral networks. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The integration of mental health screening into routine primary care visits and the availability of resources to address the emotional and psychological needs of patients significantly impact the overall quality of care.

Specific practices within the 42347 area would be assessed based on the criteria outlined above. For example, a practice demonstrating a strong commitment to proactive screening, offering telemedicine options, and providing access to mental health support would receive a higher score. Conversely, practices with limited resources, longer wait times, and a lack of focus on preventive care would receive a lower score. The goal is to identify and highlight practices that are excelling in providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

The analysis would also consider the broader healthcare landscape in Hartford. The availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as CT scanners, is crucial for screening. The proximity of specialized cancer centers and the efficiency of referral pathways to those centers are also important. The "Lung Cancer Score" would incorporate information about the local healthcare infrastructure to provide a more holistic assessment of the community's capacity to address lung cancer.

The analysis would examine the presence of patient navigators or care coordinators within primary care practices. These individuals play a vital role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance issues, and other practical needs. Their presence can significantly improve patient experience and outcomes. The score would reflect the availability of these support services.

The analysis would also consider the practice’s commitment to patient education. Providing patients with clear, concise information about lung cancer risk factors, screening options, and treatment pathways is essential. Practices that offer educational materials, host patient workshops, and actively engage patients in their care would receive a higher score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about the individual practices; it’s about the overall health of the community. The analysis would consider the prevalence of smoking in the area and the availability of smoking cessation programs. These programs are essential for preventing lung cancer and improving the overall health of the population. The score would reflect the community's efforts to address tobacco use.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" would be a composite of all the factors discussed. It would be a relative assessment, comparing practices within the 42347 area and providing insights into areas where improvements are needed. The score is designed to be a starting point for discussion and action, encouraging healthcare providers to enhance their services and improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources and patient demographics in the 42347 area and beyond, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you understand the distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about healthcare access.