42452, Robards, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42452, Robards, Kentucky is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.56 percent of the residents in 42452 has some form of health insurance. 36.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.26 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 42452 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 407 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42452. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 404 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 798 health care providers accessible to residents in 42452, Robards, Kentucky.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 42452 and Primary Care in Robards**

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP code 42452 (primarily encompassing the town of Robards, Kentucky) with a focus on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of this disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. In Robards, assessing the PCP landscape requires a careful evaluation of the existing healthcare infrastructure. This includes understanding the number of PCPs serving the population, translating into a physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests greater accessibility and potentially shorter wait times for appointments, a critical factor in the timely diagnosis of lung cancer. Conversely, a lower ratio might indicate increased patient load, potentially leading to delays in care.

Data on physician-to-patient ratios in Robards specifically is difficult to obtain with precision due to privacy restrictions and the dynamic nature of medical staffing. However, a reasonable estimate can be derived by cross-referencing publicly available data from the US Census Bureau, the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, and healthcare directories. This combined information can provide a general sense of the density of primary care providers within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Further investigation would involve contacting local hospitals and clinics to ascertain their patient volume and staffing levels.

Standout practices within the Robards area are identified by examining factors such as their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening protocols. Practices that actively promote and implement lung cancer screening programs, especially for high-risk individuals (smokers or former smokers), demonstrate a proactive approach to patient health. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans within the practice or through established referral networks is another key indicator. Practices that emphasize patient education, providing resources on smoking cessation and the early signs of lung cancer, are also highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results, can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas like Robards. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, are better equipped to support patients throughout their lung cancer journey. The availability of telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, particularly for those undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or through established referral networks, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The ability to connect patients with counselors, support groups, and other mental health professionals is essential for addressing the psychological impact of the disease and improving patient outcomes.

Specific practices within the 42452 ZIP code would need to be assessed individually. Researching local clinic websites, reading patient reviews, and contacting healthcare providers directly would be necessary to gather information on their specific offerings. Key questions to ask include: What are the practice’s screening protocols for lung cancer? Does the practice offer telemedicine options? Does the practice have a relationship with mental health professionals?

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Robards would then be a composite measure, taking into account all the aforementioned factors. It would not be a single number but a nuanced assessment. It would weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with proactive screening and patient education, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a supportive environment for lung cancer patients, characterized by accessible care, early detection capabilities, and comprehensive support services. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding screening programs, and integrating mental health support.

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Publicly available data is often limited, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The "Lung Cancer Score" is an estimate based on available information and should not be considered a definitive judgment of the quality of care. Further investigation, including direct contact with healthcare providers and patient surveys, would be necessary to obtain a complete picture.

In conclusion, assessing the availability and quality of primary care resources in Robards, Kentucky, is crucial for understanding the support available to individuals facing lung cancer. The factors discussed, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all contribute to the overall patient experience and the potential for positive outcomes. A comprehensive analysis, coupled with ongoing monitoring and improvement efforts, is essential to ensure that residents of Robards have access to the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Robards and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, the distribution of healthcare professionals, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas of need and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.