40006, Bedford, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40006, Bedford, Kentucky is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 40006 has some form of health insurance. 47.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.48 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 40006 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40006. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 869 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 511 health care providers accessible to residents in 40006, Bedford, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bedford, KY (ZIP Code 40006)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability within Bedford, Kentucky, specifically focusing on the 40006 ZIP code. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of healthcare professionals, support systems, and technological advancements that impact patient outcomes. This 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a single, numerical value, but rather a qualitative evaluation of various factors contributing to the overall quality of care.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system is access to primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Bedford, the availability of PCPs is a crucial factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric, should be examined. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data on the number of practicing PCPs within the 40006 ZIP code, compared to the population size, is essential. This information, ideally sourced from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are the existing physicians concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are they spread across multiple practices, potentially increasing accessibility for residents in different parts of the community? Analyzing the geographic distribution of practices helps determine if access is equitable across the 40006 area.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care practices needs to be assessed. This includes evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing, and the implementation of evidence-based breast cancer screening guidelines. Practices that actively promote mammography screenings, educate patients about risk factors, and offer timely referrals to specialists are likely to contribute to a higher 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Specialist availability is another critical element. The presence of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists within a reasonable distance of Bedford is essential for comprehensive breast cancer care. The proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in Louisville, is a factor. The ability to quickly access these specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care significantly impacts patient outcomes. The time it takes to schedule appointments with these specialists, and the availability of services like on-site imaging, are also important considerations.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These are clinics or hospitals that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that have a dedicated breast cancer center, offer a multidisciplinary approach to treatment (involving oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and support staff), and actively participate in clinical trials. Identifying these practices helps patients and providers understand the best options available within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is playing an increasingly significant role in healthcare, especially in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations with specialists, can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, consultations, and educational sessions contribute positively to the 'Breast Cancer Score'. The technology infrastructure in the area, including internet access and the availability of telehealth platforms, also needs consideration.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a crucial aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community is essential. Assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and the accessibility of their services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times) is important. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, whether in-person or virtual, can provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

Another factor is the availability of patient navigators. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing support, education, and advocacy. Their presence can significantly improve patient outcomes by ensuring that patients receive timely access to care, understand their treatment options, and receive the support they need.

The final factor is the cost of care. While this analysis doesn't delve into specific insurance plans or pricing, the affordability of healthcare services is a significant barrier for many patients. The availability of financial assistance programs, grants, and other resources to help patients cover the costs of treatment and care should be considered.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Bedford, KY (40006) is dependent on a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, specialist availability, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care all contribute to the overall quality of care. A robust primary care infrastructure, coupled with access to specialized services and supportive resources, is crucial for improving patient outcomes. The availability of data and ongoing monitoring of these factors are essential for continuous improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Bedford, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore the power of location intelligence. **Click here to learn more about CartoChrome maps and how they can provide a comprehensive, interactive view of healthcare resources in your community.**