40068, Smithfield, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40068, Smithfield, Kentucky is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.92 percent of the residents in 40068 has some form of health insurance. 25.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.46 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 40068 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 555 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40068. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 357 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,379 health care providers accessible to residents in 40068, Smithfield, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Smithfield, KY (ZIP Code 40068)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care availability and quality within Smithfield, Kentucky (ZIP code 40068), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Smithfield, a community nestled in Henry County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The rural nature of the area influences factors like physician distribution, technological infrastructure, and patient support systems. Analyzing these elements provides a critical perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local breast cancer care ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. PCPs act as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Smithfield is paramount. This involves evaluating the number of practicing physicians per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of new patients. The analysis will examine the concentration of PCPs within the 40068 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering potential travel distances for residents seeking care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per resident, generally correlates with improved access and potentially better patient outcomes. The analysis will compare the physician-to-patient ratio in Smithfield to both state and national averages. Any significant deviations will be explored, considering factors like the age and health profile of the local population, which can impact healthcare demand.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves researching practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies (mammography, ultrasound), the use of evidence-based screening guidelines, and the presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists or partnerships with oncology centers. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction, positive outcomes, and participation in clinical trials will be highlighted.

Telemedicine is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists and consultations. The analysis will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, focusing on the availability of virtual appointments for breast cancer screening education, follow-up consultations, and mental health support. Practices that offer telemedicine services for these purposes will be given higher scores.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is, therefore, critical. This analysis will examine the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, therapists, counselors) in Smithfield and surrounding areas, and assess their capacity to support breast cancer patients. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and partnerships between healthcare providers and mental health professionals will be considered.

The analysis will also explore the extent to which local healthcare providers collaborate with regional cancer centers and hospitals. This collaboration is crucial for ensuring access to specialized treatments, clinical trials, and comprehensive cancer care. Partnerships with institutions like the James Graham Brown Cancer Center in Louisville or similar facilities will be assessed.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of patient education resources. Access to information about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options empowers patients to make informed decisions about their health. The availability of educational materials, patient navigators, and community outreach programs will be evaluated.

The economic factors impacting healthcare access will also be considered. The analysis will explore the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the affordability of healthcare services in Smithfield. This is crucial for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their financial circumstances, can access the care they need.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Smithfield will be a composite score, based on the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights will reflect the relative importance of each factor in determining the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement.

The analysis will not provide a specific numerical score for individual physicians or practices due to privacy concerns. Instead, it will offer a general assessment of the healthcare environment within the 40068 ZIP code.

The assessment will also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural beliefs can influence health outcomes. The analysis will consider the ways in which these factors may affect breast cancer care in Smithfield.

The analysis will also consider the impact of public health initiatives. The presence of local health departments and community organizations that are actively involved in breast cancer awareness, screening programs, and patient support will be evaluated.

In conclusion, this 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis provides a detailed overview of breast cancer care availability and quality in Smithfield, Kentucky (ZIP code 40068). The assessment considers physician access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other critical factors. This analysis aims to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about their health.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the availability of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a geographically informed perspective on the data analyzed in this report.