42350, Island, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42350, Island, Kentucky is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.63 percent of the residents in 42350 has some form of health insurance. 48.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.90 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 42350 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 306 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42350. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 303 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,638 health care providers accessible to residents in 42350, Island, Kentucky.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Island, KY (ZIP Code 42350)**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Island, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42350), with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We will examine primary care physician availability, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and overall access to care, culminating in a Lung Cancer Score that reflects the community's preparedness to address this critical health concern. The assessment considers the unique characteristics of Island, a small community, and the potential challenges it faces in delivering comprehensive healthcare.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and consistent follow-up. This begins with accessible and readily available primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio in Island is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. A high ratio, conversely, suggests better access and improved patient outcomes. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP Code 42350 is essential. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards provide this information. The analysis will factor in the presence of any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics, which often play a vital role in underserved communities like Island.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This involves evaluating the services offered by local practices. Do they offer comprehensive physical examinations, including screenings for lung cancer risk factors like smoking history? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? Are they actively involved in patient education and smoking cessation programs? Identifying any standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. These could be practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient-centered communication, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. This involves reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare professionals, and analyzing data on patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to specialized care. Its adoption rate within ZIP Code 42350 is a key factor. Are local primary care practices utilizing telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, or specialist referrals? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, allowing them to access pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists without having to travel long distances. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area is a critical prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation. The analysis will consider the presence of any telemedicine programs offered by local hospitals or healthcare systems.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant impacts on a patient’s mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources in Island is therefore a crucial consideration. Does the community have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers? Are there support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families? The analysis will explore the presence of any mental health clinics or programs within the ZIP code or nearby communities. Integration between primary care and mental health services is also a critical factor. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The overall access to care in Island includes factors beyond physician availability and mental health resources. This includes the availability of transportation to medical appointments, the affordability of healthcare services, and the availability of support services, such as patient navigators or social workers. The analysis will consider the presence of any local transportation programs for medical appointments, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients. The presence of a local hospital or clinic is a major factor. The services offered, the quality of care, and the hospital’s commitment to the community are all important considerations.

Based on the collected data, a Lung Cancer Score will be assigned to ZIP Code 42350. This score will reflect the community's overall preparedness to address lung cancer, considering factors such as primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to care. The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating a more favorable environment for lung cancer care.

The analysis will also identify areas for improvement. This could include recommendations for increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, improving mental health resources, or enhancing access to transportation and financial assistance programs. The findings of this analysis can be used by local healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to improve the quality of lung cancer care in Island, Kentucky.

The Lung Cancer Score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Island, KY, and to identify opportunities for improvement. The goal is to empower residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and to advocate for better healthcare services in their community.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare resources and services evolve. Regular assessments and updates are essential to ensure that the community continues to receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Island, KY, and to explore the data used in this analysis, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide detailed information on physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.