42784, Upton, Kentucky Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 42784, Upton, Kentucky is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.29 percent of the residents in 42784 has some form of health insurance. 49.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.88 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 42784 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 764 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42784. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 361 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 214 health care providers accessible to residents in 42784, Upton, Kentucky.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Upton, KY (ZIP Code 42784)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Upton, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42784), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare environment, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

Upton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The limited population base often translates to fewer healthcare providers, potentially impacting physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized services. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, practicing within the 42784 ZIP code or in nearby areas readily accessible to Upton residents. A low ratio of physicians to patients can indicate potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is essential for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lung cancer. The analysis must determine the proximity and availability of these specialists.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Healthcare facilities with a strong reputation for patient care, a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and a focus on patient education are considered highly valuable. These practices often serve as hubs for comprehensive care, potentially improving outcomes for lung cancer patients. The analysis must also consider whether these practices accept various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to ensure accessibility for all residents.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The analysis must evaluate the availability of telemedicine services among local providers, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, who may face mobility challenges or live far from specialized care centers.

Mental health resources are crucial for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis must investigate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the Upton area or in nearby communities. Integrated care models, where mental health professionals are integrated into primary care or oncology practices, can improve access to these essential services. The analysis should also assess the availability of resources addressing the specific needs of lung cancer patients, such as support groups focused on coping with the disease.

The availability of diagnostic tools and treatment options is another essential consideration. The analysis must assess the availability of imaging services, such as CT scans and PET scans, necessary for the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. It must also determine the proximity and accessibility of facilities offering advanced treatment modalities, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. The presence of clinical trials in the area is also a significant factor, as these trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.

The analysis must also consider the availability of patient education resources. Providing patients with accurate and understandable information about their condition, treatment options, and support services is essential for empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. The analysis should evaluate whether local healthcare providers offer patient education materials, such as brochures, websites, or educational programs.

The analysis will need to consider the presence of community health initiatives. Local health departments and community organizations often play a crucial role in promoting lung cancer awareness, prevention, and early detection. The analysis must identify any such initiatives in the Upton area, including screening programs, smoking cessation programs, and educational campaigns. These initiatives can contribute to improved lung cancer outcomes by promoting early detection and reducing risk factors.

The analysis must also evaluate the accessibility of transportation services. Patients may face challenges in accessing healthcare services due to limited transportation options, especially in rural areas. The analysis should assess the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, or other transportation assistance programs that can help patients reach their appointments.

The analysis will consider the role of insurance coverage. The accessibility of healthcare services is heavily influenced by insurance coverage. The analysis should evaluate the types of insurance plans accepted by local healthcare providers, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans. It should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may be unable to afford the cost of care.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for Upton (ZIP Code 42784) will be a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The final score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. This score is not intended to be a definitive judgment but rather a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare environment in Upton, KY, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the factors relevant to lung cancer care. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other key factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

Would you like to see a visual representation of this data? Explore the healthcare landscape in Upton and other areas with CartoChrome maps.