42782, Summersville, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.28 percent of the residents in 42782 has some form of health insurance. 59.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.80 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 42782 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 136 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42782. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 155 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 42782, Summersville, Kentucky.

The analysis focuses on lung cancer care within Summersville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42782), evaluating the availability and quality of care for individuals facing this serious disease. This involves examining the physician landscape, specifically primary care doctors, and their ability to manage the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patient decision-making.

Summersville, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, can be limited. Therefore, the role of primary care physicians (PCPs) becomes even more critical. They often serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through the diagnostic process, coordinating referrals, and providing ongoing support. The effectiveness of this system hinges on the availability, expertise, and resources accessible to these PCPs.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is often proprietary, publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide valuable insights. Analyzing these sources reveals the number of PCPs practicing within the 42782 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, alongside the estimated population served. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests greater accessibility, while a high ratio may indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This ratio directly impacts a patient's ability to receive prompt screenings, diagnoses, and treatment for lung cancer.

Evaluating the practices within Summersville requires a nuanced approach. Identifying standout practices involves assessing several key factors. These include the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (such as low-dose CT scanners for lung cancer screening), and the practice's commitment to evidence-based medicine. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives and patient-centered care models often demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient well-being. Furthermore, assessing patient satisfaction through online reviews and surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of healthcare delivery in rural communities. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to specialists and consultations. The availability of telemedicine options, such as virtual consultations with pulmonologists or oncologists, can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care. Examining the extent to which local practices have integrated telemedicine into their services is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the technical infrastructure to support these services.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are inherently stressful. The emotional toll on patients and their families is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the local healthcare system is essential. Assessing whether practices offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site counseling or referrals to mental health specialists, is also vital. This ensures that patients have access to the emotional support they need to cope with the challenges of lung cancer.

Specific practices within Summersville may demonstrate exemplary characteristics. While a comprehensive list is beyond the scope of this analysis, it is possible to identify practices that prioritize patient-centered care, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and actively engage in quality improvement initiatives. These practices often have a strong focus on early detection, screening programs, and comprehensive treatment plans. They may also actively participate in clinical trials, providing patients with access to cutting-edge therapies. Furthermore, these practices often foster a collaborative environment, working closely with specialists and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless care coordination.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. The availability of real-time, comprehensive data on physician practices, patient outcomes, and resource utilization is often restricted. Publicly available data may be outdated or incomplete. Furthermore, the quality of care is a complex concept that is difficult to quantify. Subjective factors, such as patient satisfaction and the physician-patient relationship, play a significant role. This analysis provides a general overview and should not be considered a substitute for individual medical advice.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care in Summersville, Kentucky, is contingent on several interconnected factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the overall patient experience. While challenges exist in rural communities, opportunities for improvement are also present. Prioritizing patient-centered care, investing in advanced diagnostic technologies, and expanding access to telemedicine and mental health services can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals facing lung cancer.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summersville and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.