40036, Lockport, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40036, Lockport, Kentucky is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.22 percent of the residents in 40036 has some form of health insurance. 50.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.01 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 40036 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40036. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 167 health care providers accessible to residents in 40036, Lockport, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Lockport, KY (ZIP Code 40036)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources within the Lockport, Kentucky area (ZIP Code 40036), focusing on physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to assess the overall strength of the local healthcare ecosystem in addressing the needs of individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis or seeking preventative care. This analysis is not a definitive ranking but rather a snapshot of the current landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in the availability of skilled medical professionals. In Lockport, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates more personalized care, crucial for early detection and ongoing management of breast cancer. Data on the exact PCP-to-patient ratio in 40036 is essential for a precise assessment, but publicly available information and local health department reports can provide insights. The availability of PCPs directly impacts access to preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and the timely referral of patients to specialists if abnormalities are detected.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Assessing the practices' commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines is vital. Do they proactively schedule mammograms for eligible patients? Do they offer patient education materials about risk factors and self-examination techniques? Practices that prioritize these aspects demonstrate a proactive approach to early detection, which significantly improves outcomes. Examining patient reviews, available online or through local health organizations, can reveal valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Specialist availability is another crucial element. The presence of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists within a reasonable distance is essential for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. Travel time to these specialists significantly impacts patient convenience and can influence treatment decisions. The proximity of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering multidisciplinary care, can be a significant advantage. Such centers often provide access to advanced diagnostic tools, clinical trials, and support services, enhancing the overall quality of care. The absence of such a center necessitates assessing the referral pathways to specialists in nearby cities, such as Louisville, and evaluating the efficiency of these referral processes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Telemedicine facilitates virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring, reducing the burden on patients and improving their overall experience. The availability of telemedicine for breast cancer-related services, such as consultations with specialists or support groups, should be assessed. Examining the technological infrastructure of local practices, including internet access and the use of electronic health records, is essential for evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine adoption.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of counselors, therapists, and support groups in the Lockport area should be assessed. Does the local healthcare system offer referrals to mental health professionals specializing in oncology? Are support groups, either in-person or virtual, available to provide emotional support and peer-to-peer guidance? The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is essential for addressing the holistic needs of patients.

Furthermore, the presence of patient navigators or care coordinators can significantly improve the patient experience. These professionals assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing resources. They act as advocates for patients, ensuring they receive the necessary support throughout their treatment journey. Evaluating the availability of these services in Lockport is crucial for assessing the overall quality of care.

Analyzing the availability of resources for financial assistance is also important. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial support programs can alleviate the burden on patients. Assessing the availability of information about financial assistance programs, such as grants, insurance coverage, and payment plans, is an important consideration. Collaboration between healthcare providers and social service agencies can facilitate access to these resources.

Finally, the overall community awareness of breast cancer and preventative measures plays a significant role. Assessing the presence of public health campaigns, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives can provide insights into the level of community support for breast cancer awareness. The involvement of local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or local hospitals, in promoting breast cancer awareness is a positive indicator of community engagement.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Lockport, KY (ZIP Code 40036). It underscores the importance of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and community resources. Further research, including data collection and analysis, is needed to develop a more precise and comprehensive assessment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in Lockport and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to support services, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a dynamic and informative view of the healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care.