40070, Sulphur, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.56 percent of the residents in 40070 has some form of health insurance. 34.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.63 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 40070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 92 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40070. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 48 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 40070, Sulphur, Kentucky.

Breast cancer screening and early detection are crucial for positive outcomes. In the context of Sulphur, Kentucky (ZIP code 40070), a comprehensive analysis of healthcare resources reveals a landscape shaped by physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern technologies. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the factors impacting access to quality breast cancer care for residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Sulphur, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences the ability of patients to receive timely screenings and referrals. A lower PCP-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create bottlenecks in the system, potentially delaying crucial appointments and diagnostic procedures. Analyzing data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau would provide the necessary figures to accurately determine this ratio within the 40070 ZIP code. This initial data point forms the foundation of the Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specific practices within Sulphur contribute significantly to the overall quality of care. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the presence of board-certified physicians, the utilization of advanced screening technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the availability of on-site or readily accessible diagnostic services (e.g., biopsies). Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offering resources on breast cancer awareness and self-examination techniques, would also score favorably. Furthermore, the adoption of patient-centered care models, such as extended appointment times and personalized treatment plans, contributes to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing mental health support, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically remote areas. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine platforms, ensuring secure and user-friendly access for patients, receive higher scores. The availability of remote monitoring tools, allowing for the tracking of symptoms and treatment adherence, would also be considered.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but are integral to the Breast Cancer Score. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care, is crucial. Practices that proactively address the psychological needs of their patients, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The integration of mental health services contributes significantly to a higher Breast Cancer Score.

Analyzing the availability of these resources within the 40070 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. Data collection would involve contacting local medical practices, reviewing publicly available information (e.g., practice websites, online reviews), and potentially conducting patient surveys to gauge their experiences. This information is then used to create a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for Sulphur, Kentucky.

The Breast Cancer Score framework would consider the following:
* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A lower ratio, indicating greater access to PCPs, receives a higher score.
* **Practice Characteristics:** The presence of board-certified physicians, advanced screening technologies, and diagnostic services.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and user-friendly platforms.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care.

Each of these categories is weighted based on its importance to patient outcomes. The final score provides a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Sulphur, Kentucky.

The analysis would also consider the presence of community outreach programs. Practices actively involved in breast cancer awareness campaigns, offering free screenings, and partnering with local organizations to provide educational resources receive higher scores. This demonstrates a commitment to preventative care and reaching underserved populations.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of specialized care. While Sulphur may not have a dedicated cancer center, the proximity to facilities offering specialized breast cancer treatment, such as surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, is a factor. Easy access to these services is essential for timely and effective treatment.

The analysis would also consider the availability of financial assistance programs. The cost of breast cancer screening and treatment can be a significant barrier to care for some patients. Practices that offer financial counseling, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and are aware of available financial assistance programs receive higher scores.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical rating; it's a tool for improvement. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, the analysis can help healthcare providers in Sulphur improve their services and better meet the needs of their patients. This information can also be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score analysis for Sulphur, Kentucky (40070) provides a valuable assessment of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis, by examining physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, offers a comprehensive view of the breast cancer care ecosystem. The score is a dynamic tool, designed to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

For a detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in Sulphur, Kentucky, and across the nation, visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the data, visualize the landscape, and make informed decisions about your health.