40324, Georgetown, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40324, Georgetown, Kentucky is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.38 percent of the residents in 40324 has some form of health insurance. 27.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.78 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 40324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13,592 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40324. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,683 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,545 health care providers accessible to residents in 40324, Georgetown, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Georgetown, KY (ZIP Code 40324)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within Georgetown, Kentucky (ZIP code 40324), focusing on primary care access, physician resources, and supportive services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating the community's preparedness to address breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This score is not a single number, but a nuanced understanding built upon several interconnected factors.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, responsible for initial screenings, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. Evaluating primary care availability in Georgetown begins with examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per PCP, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the U.S. Census Bureau are crucial to calculating this ratio accurately. The analysis must also account for the distribution of PCPs across the ZIP code, identifying areas with potential shortages and considering the accessibility of practices to residents, factoring in transportation challenges and the availability of public transit.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. This involves assessing the practices' adherence to established screening guidelines, such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for mammography. Data from insurance providers, patient surveys, and practice websites can reveal the frequency of mammogram referrals and the availability of patient education materials on breast cancer risk factors and self-exams. Practices that proactively educate patients and emphasize preventative care will receive a higher score in this area.

Specialist availability is another crucial component. The presence of oncologists, radiologists specializing in breast imaging, and breast surgeons within or near Georgetown is essential. The analysis must identify the number of specialists, their board certifications, and their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. Proximity to comprehensive cancer centers, such as those in Lexington, is also a factor, as these centers often provide advanced treatment options, clinical trials, and multidisciplinary care. The analysis must consider travel times to these facilities, especially for patients without reliable transportation.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Practices offering telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience. The analysis will examine the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs and specialists in Georgetown, considering the availability of necessary technology and the training provided to both physicians and patients. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine to improve patient access will receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within Georgetown and the surrounding areas. It should also assess whether primary care practices and specialist offices offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is a key indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for highlighting best practices and informing patients. This involves recognizing practices that demonstrate excellence in several areas, such as patient satisfaction, adherence to screening guidelines, and the integration of supportive services. Data from patient reviews, insurance provider ratings, and professional organizations can be used to identify these practices. The analysis should also consider the cultural competency of practices, ensuring that they are equipped to provide care to a diverse patient population.

The analysis must also consider the availability of support groups and patient resources. These resources provide emotional support, education, and practical assistance to patients and their families. The presence of local chapters of organizations like the American Cancer Society or the Susan G. Komen Foundation, as well as hospital-based support groups, can significantly improve the patient experience. The analysis will identify these resources and assess their accessibility to residents of Georgetown.

Overall, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Georgetown (40324) is not a single metric but a composite assessment. It reflects the combined strength of primary care access, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and support services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and the integration of supportive services will receive a higher score. The analysis must consider the unique challenges faced by residents of Georgetown, such as transportation limitations and the availability of affordable healthcare.

This comprehensive assessment aims to empower residents of Georgetown with information about their local healthcare landscape, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for improved access to care. The analysis will highlight areas where improvements are needed and identify opportunities for collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

To visualize the geographic distribution of these resources and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Georgetown, Kentucky, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visually explore the availability of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services in the area, providing a powerful tool for both patients and healthcare professionals.