40117, Ekron, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40117, Ekron, Kentucky is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.79 percent of the residents in 40117 has some form of health insurance. 43.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.41 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 40117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 647 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40117. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 448 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 569 health care providers accessible to residents in 40117, Ekron, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ekron, KY (ZIP Code 40117)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 40117, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility in Ekron, Kentucky. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This score will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall healthcare environment's capacity to support women facing breast cancer concerns.

Ekron, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature often translates to limited resources, but the close-knit community can foster strong patient-physician relationships. Assessing these dynamics is vital for understanding the true picture of breast cancer care in the area.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability**

A fundamental aspect of this analysis is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the number of PCPs practicing within or serving ZIP code 40117 is paramount. This data, ideally sourced from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and local hospital systems, will be compared to the population of Ekron and surrounding areas. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments for preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and follow-up care.

The availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for women experiencing breast health concerns. Their role in ordering mammograms, conducting clinical breast exams, and referring patients to specialists is crucial. The analysis will examine appointment wait times for PCPs, the ease of scheduling these critical appointments, and the overall accessibility of primary care services within the community.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within or serving ZIP code 40117 is critical. These practices may excel in specific areas of breast cancer care, such as patient education, utilizing advanced screening technologies, or providing comprehensive support services. The analysis will consider factors like the availability of on-site mammography services, the implementation of patient navigation programs to guide women through the healthcare system, and the practice's commitment to evidence-based breast cancer screening guidelines.

A practice’s commitment to patient education is another crucial element. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, provide educational materials, and offer resources for self-exams and risk assessment will receive higher scores. This proactive approach empowers women to take control of their breast health and seek early intervention when necessary.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine holds significant potential for improving healthcare access in rural areas like Ekron. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by PCPs and specialists serving the community. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and consultations with breast cancer specialists.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for women who face transportation barriers or live far from specialized care centers. The ability to connect with healthcare providers remotely can reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The analysis will consider the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care continuum.

**Mental Health Resources: Supporting the Whole Person**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a woman's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within and around Ekron. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in supporting individuals affected by cancer.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, will also be considered. These groups provide a vital platform for women to connect with others who understand their experiences, share coping strategies, and receive emotional support. The analysis will also assess the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that women have access to the support they need throughout their journey.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Measure**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weighted score based on its relative importance in providing quality breast cancer care. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment within ZIP code 40117, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the community's capacity to support women facing breast cancer concerns.

The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the overall state of breast cancer care in Ekron. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of women in the community.

**Data Sources and Methodology**

The analysis will rely on a combination of publicly available data, including information from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, the U.S. Census Bureau, and local hospital systems. Data will be collected and analyzed using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. This will involve analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, appointment wait times, and the availability of specific services. Qualitative data will be gathered through interviews with healthcare providers, community members, and patient advocates.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in Ekron is crucial for improving women's health outcomes. This "Breast Cancer Score" analysis provides a framework for evaluating the current state of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within the community, we can work towards creating a healthcare environment that supports women throughout their breast cancer journey.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ekron and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into physician locations, facility accessibility, and other relevant data points. Explore CartoChrome maps today and gain a visual perspective on the healthcare resources available in your community.