42409, Dixon, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42409, Dixon, Kentucky is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.18 percent of the residents in 42409 has some form of health insurance. 41.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.22 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 42409 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 475 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42409. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 373 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 42409, Dixon, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Dixon, KY (ZIP Code 42409)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 42409 (Dixon, Kentucky) and evaluates the overall primary care landscape in terms of its ability to support patients at risk for, or diagnosed with, lung cancer. This assessment considers factors crucial to early detection, treatment access, and comprehensive patient care. The goal is to provide a snapshot of the available resources and identify areas for potential improvement.

The core of this analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, as PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at risk for lung cancer. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, making access to quality primary care paramount. The Lung Cancer Score is a composite of several factors, weighted to reflect their relative importance in patient outcomes.

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

The physician-to-patient ratio in Dixon, KY, is a critical starting point. A low ratio can lead to appointment delays, hindering timely screening and diagnosis. Publicly available data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau will be used to estimate this ratio. This data will be supplemented by information from local hospitals and clinics to determine the actual number of practicing PCPs serving the 42409 ZIP code. The analysis will identify any potential shortages and their impact on patient access. Areas with limited access will negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also crucial. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other parts of the community underserved? The analysis will examine the proximity of practices to residential areas, particularly those with higher-risk populations (e.g., those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards). Transportation challenges, especially for elderly or low-income patients, will be considered as they can significantly impact access to care.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key indicators. The analysis will assess the practices' commitment to preventative care, including the implementation of lung cancer screening protocols for eligible patients (e.g., those meeting the criteria established by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force). This involves evaluating the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for high-risk individuals. The analysis will also examine the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

Patient satisfaction is a crucial element. The analysis will consider publicly available patient reviews and feedback, focusing on aspects such as communication, empathy, and the overall patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews, particularly those that highlight the responsiveness of staff and the clarity of information provided, will receive higher scores. The availability of extended hours and weekend appointments, facilitating access for working individuals, will also be considered.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Dixon. The analysis will examine the extent to which local PCPs have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better equipped to provide timely care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The ability to conduct follow-up appointments remotely is particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting and the broader community. This includes assessing whether PCPs offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, will also be considered. Access to mental health services is crucial for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges that can arise during the cancer journey.

**Specific Considerations for Lung Cancer:**

Beyond general primary care, the analysis will assess the specific considerations related to lung cancer. This includes the practice's familiarity with the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy. It will also examine the practice's collaboration with specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, to ensure seamless care coordination. The ability to provide palliative care and symptom management is also crucial for improving the quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors described above, each PCP practice in the 42409 ZIP code will receive a Lung Cancer Score. This score will reflect the practice's strengths and weaknesses in providing care for patients at risk for, or diagnosed with, lung cancer. The overall score for the community will be a composite of the individual practice scores, providing a comprehensive picture of the primary care landscape in Dixon. This analysis will identify areas where resources are adequate and areas where improvements are needed.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be presented as a rating, allowing for a clear understanding of the overall quality of primary care in supporting lung cancer patients in Dixon. This score will be accompanied by recommendations for improvement, such as increasing physician-to-patient ratios, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

For a visual representation of the data, including the geographical distribution of PCPs, access to care, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and interactive visualization of the data, helping you understand the complexities of healthcare access in Dixon, KY, and identify areas for improvement.