42408, Dawson Springs, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42408, Dawson Springs, Kentucky is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.53 percent of the residents in 42408 has some form of health insurance. 47.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.42 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 42408 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,594 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42408. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,052 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,041 health care providers accessible to residents in 42408, Dawson Springs, Kentucky.

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape in Dawson Springs, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42408), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is crucial for improving survival rates. Therefore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. In Dawson Springs, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive preventative care, including cancer screenings. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, impacting treatment outcomes.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. The presence of practices that actively promote preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening, is essential. Standout practices within the 42408 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening protocols, and a multidisciplinary approach to care. This involves collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, radiologists, and oncologists. Evaluating practices based on their adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and their patient referral patterns to specialists provides valuable insights.

Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in rural areas like Dawson Springs, where geographical barriers can hinder access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers is a critical factor. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations with specialists, enabling patients to receive expert opinions without traveling long distances. This is particularly beneficial for patients requiring oncology consultations, follow-up appointments, or access to support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology support, is crucial. Assessing the presence of these resources within the 42408 ZIP code, including the availability of support groups and mental health services integrated within primary care practices, is vital. Practices that prioritize mental health support, offering referrals to qualified professionals and integrating mental health screenings into their care protocols, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Evaluating the healthcare landscape also involves assessing the quality of diagnostic and treatment facilities. The proximity to hospitals equipped with advanced imaging technology, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is a crucial factor. The availability of radiation therapy and chemotherapy services within a reasonable distance is also essential. The presence of a multidisciplinary cancer care team, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgical oncologists, further enhances the quality of care.

Furthermore, the availability of patient navigation services can significantly improve the patient experience. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing education, and offering emotional support. The presence of patient navigation programs within local healthcare facilities demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care.

The overall ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for Dawson Springs, Kentucky (42408) is influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, provides accessible and comprehensive care, and supports the emotional and psychological well-being of patients. A low score indicates potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care, necessitating improvements in physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The specific practices and resources available within the ZIP code, including their adherence to national guidelines, their commitment to preventative care, and their integration of mental health services, are key determinants of the score.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dawson Springs and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize the location of healthcare providers, assess physician-to-patient ratios, and analyze access to essential services. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into the healthcare environment and identify areas for improvement.

Explore the healthcare landscape of Dawson Springs with CartoChrome maps.