40022, Finchville, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40022, Finchville, Kentucky is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.58 percent of the residents in 40022 has some form of health insurance. 25.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.39 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 40022 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40022. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,338 health care providers accessible to residents in 40022, Finchville, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Finchville, KY (ZIP Code 40022)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within Finchville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40022), focusing on available physicians, primary care resources, and related support systems. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several key factors, offering insights for residents and highlighting areas for potential improvement.

**Physician Availability and Ratios**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is access to qualified medical professionals. In ZIP Code 40022, the availability of oncologists, surgeons specializing in breast health, and radiologists is a critical determinant of the Breast Cancer Score. A thorough investigation would begin by identifying the number of physicians practicing within the specified area, including those who may reside in nearby communities but provide services within the ZIP code. This involves cross-referencing data from medical directories, insurance provider networks, and hospital affiliations.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and reduced wait times for appointments and procedures. However, this ratio alone doesn't tell the whole story. The specialization of physicians is also important. While a general practitioner may be the first point of contact, specialized care from oncologists and surgeons is vital for diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will need to identify the presence of these specialists, their experience, and their availability.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the geographic distribution of physicians within the ZIP code. Are the physicians concentrated in one area, or are they spread out to serve the entire community? This spatial analysis is crucial for understanding the accessibility of care for all residents, including those in more rural areas of Finchville.

**Primary Care Availability: The Foundation of Early Detection**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in breast cancer detection. They are often the first point of contact for patients, conducting routine screenings, such as mammograms, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. The availability and accessibility of PCPs in Finchville directly impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The analysis must assess the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, their appointment availability, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Longer wait times or limited insurance coverage can create barriers to accessing care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Additionally, the analysis will evaluate the PCPs' awareness of current breast cancer screening guidelines and their proactive approach to patient education and screening recommendations. Do they actively encourage women to undergo mammograms and other necessary tests? Do they have systems in place to remind patients of upcoming screenings?

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial for understanding best practices and potential models for improvement. This involves researching practices with a strong reputation for breast cancer care, including those with a focus on patient-centered care, advanced technology, and comprehensive support services.

The analysis will examine the practices' use of technology, such as digital mammography, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and other advanced imaging techniques. These technologies can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and detect cancers at an earlier stage.

Furthermore, the analysis will assess the practices' commitment to patient education and support. Do they provide educational materials, support groups, or other resources to help patients navigate the challenges of breast cancer? Do they offer services such as genetic counseling or access to clinical trials?

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine services by physicians and practices in Finchville.

Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or educational sessions? Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to access care, especially those who may have mobility issues or live far from medical facilities.

The analysis will also assess the availability of remote monitoring technologies, which can allow physicians to track patients' progress and provide timely interventions. This can be particularly helpful for patients undergoing chemotherapy or other treatments.

**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Emotional Burden**

Breast cancer is a physically and emotionally challenging disease. The analysis must consider the availability of mental health resources for patients in Finchville.

This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology. Do local hospitals or cancer centers offer these services? Are there community organizations that provide emotional support to patients and their families?

The analysis will also examine the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Do physicians routinely screen patients for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns? Do they have referral pathways to mental health professionals?

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The final Breast Cancer Score will be a composite of the factors discussed above, weighted to reflect their relative importance. Physician availability, primary care access, and the presence of specialized care will be weighted heavily. The adoption of advanced technologies, telemedicine services, and mental health resources will also contribute to the score.

The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, with a breakdown of the individual components. This will allow residents to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the breast cancer care system in Finchville and identify areas where improvements are needed.

**Conclusion: Visualizing the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

Understanding the complex interplay of factors affecting breast cancer care requires a data-driven approach. To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of physician locations, primary care availability, and the distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights, empowering residents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions and improve access to quality breast cancer care in Finchville.