40013, Coxs Creek, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40013, Coxs Creek, Kentucky is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.35 percent of the residents in 40013 has some form of health insurance. 30.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.04 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 40013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,584 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40013. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 810 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,239 health care providers accessible to residents in 40013, Coxs Creek, Kentucky.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, demanding a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating healthcare access and quality, especially within a defined geographic area, is crucial for informed decision-making. This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care in Coxs Creek (ZIP Code 40013), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" perspective.

The foundation of quality breast cancer care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Coxs Creek, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the early detection of breast cancer through routine screenings and referrals. A low PCP-to-patient ratio could indicate potential delays in care, as patients might face longer wait times for appointments. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting a greater number of PCPs per capita, generally suggests better access to primary care and, by extension, potentially improved breast cancer outcomes. Data on the exact PCP-to-patient ratio in Coxs Creek is essential to accurately assess this aspect. This ratio, alongside the age distribution of the population, will inform the initial score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices matter. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate working individuals? Do they have a strong focus on preventative care, including robust screening programs for breast cancer? Practices that actively promote mammography screenings and provide patient education on breast health contribute significantly to early detection. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) within these practices also plays a role, as it facilitates seamless communication between providers and allows for better tracking of patient histories and test results. These factors would elevate the score.

The presence of specialized breast cancer care providers, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is paramount. While Coxs Creek may not have these specialists directly within its borders, the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Louisville becomes critical. The ease of access to these specialists, measured by travel time and the availability of transportation options, influences the score. The presence of a comprehensive breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach with all necessary specialists under one roof, would significantly boost the score. This would include the availability of diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical services, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in the region can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate consultations. Practices that offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits, consultations, and even some aspects of chemotherapy management would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from specialized centers or who have mobility issues. The quality of the technology used, including the availability of secure video conferencing platforms and the integration of telemedicine into EHR systems, will also be assessed.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology is vital. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, would be highly regarded. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, provides patients with a valuable network of support and shared experiences. Assessing the availability of these resources and their integration into the overall care plan is crucial for a comprehensive score.

Standout practices within the area, if any, would be identified and highlighted. These practices might excel in specific areas, such as patient communication, care coordination, or innovative treatment approaches. Their practices would be examined for best practices and potentially serve as models for other providers in the region. This could include practices with dedicated breast cancer navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The recognition of standout practices would be based on patient reviews, clinical outcomes, and the adoption of patient-centered care models.

The "Breast Cancer Score" would be a composite measure, weighted based on the importance of each factor. The PCP-to-patient ratio, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources would each contribute to the final score. The score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in Coxs Creek, providing a valuable tool for patients and healthcare providers. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with excellent access to care, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

This analysis is a starting point. The score is not a definitive ranking but a snapshot of the current landscape. Ongoing monitoring and data collection are necessary to track improvements and identify areas where resources are most needed. The information will be most useful when compared with similar analyses from other areas.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Coxs Creek and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help patients and healthcare providers understand the geographic distribution of resources and plan for optimal care. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.