40143, Hardinsburg, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40143, Hardinsburg, Kentucky is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.22 percent of the residents in 40143 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.99 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 40143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,673 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40143. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 40143, Hardinsburg, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Hardinsburg, KY (ZIP Code 40143)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within Hardinsburg, Kentucky (ZIP code 40143), focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights for residents and highlighting areas for potential improvement. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

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

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. In Hardinsburg, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of general practitioners, internal medicine physicians, and family doctors serving the population. A crucial factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of patients each physician is responsible for, influencing appointment wait times and the overall ability to provide timely care. A lower ratio generally indicates better access.

Data from the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, combined with population estimates for 40143, would be necessary to calculate the precise physician-to-patient ratio. This calculation is fundamental to the 'Breast Cancer Score' as it directly impacts the ability of individuals to obtain routine screenings, establish relationships with primary care providers, and receive timely referrals to specialists if needed. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, negatively affecting outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the availability of comprehensive services, the use of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction levels, and the integration of technology. Practices that offer on-site mammography services, for instance, simplify the screening process and increase the likelihood of early detection.

Another key element is the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Practices that provide educational materials about breast cancer risk factors, self-exams, and treatment options empower patients to take an active role in their health. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research initiatives demonstrate a commitment to advancing breast cancer care. The presence of certified breast health navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment is another positive indicator.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Hardinsburg. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or have mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals.

In the context of breast cancer, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, providing emotional support, and delivering educational resources. The 'Breast Cancer Score' should consider the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine. Factors to assess include the availability of virtual appointment options, the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

**Mental Health Resources and their Importance**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges are common. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The 'Breast Cancer Score' must evaluate the availability of mental health services in the area.

This includes assessing the presence of licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also important. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to addressing the emotional needs of their patients.

**The 'Breast Cancer Score' Framework**

Creating a 'Breast Cancer Score' for Hardinsburg, KY, requires a systematic approach. Each of the factors discussed above – primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weighted score based on its importance.

Data collection would involve a combination of sources, including public health records, physician directories, practice websites, and potentially patient surveys. The data would be analyzed to generate a numerical score, providing a quantifiable assessment of the quality and availability of breast cancer-related healthcare in the region. This score could then be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, guiding efforts to improve care for local residents.

**Specific Considerations for Hardinsburg**

Hardinsburg, being a rural community, may face unique challenges in accessing healthcare. These challenges could include limited transportation options, a shortage of specialists, and a lack of broadband internet access, which can hinder telemedicine adoption. The 'Breast Cancer Score' should take these factors into account, recognizing the specific needs of the community.

Furthermore, the score should consider the presence of any local initiatives or programs aimed at improving breast cancer care, such as community outreach programs, mobile mammography units, or partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations. These initiatives can play a vital role in increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and providing support to patients.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the breast cancer healthcare landscape in Hardinsburg, KY (40143). By evaluating the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' can be generated. This score will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the best possible care.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Hardinsburg and across Kentucky, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping technology can help you visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, understand access challenges, and identify potential opportunities for improvement. Visit CartoChrome today to begin your exploration.