40484, Stanford, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 40484, Stanford, Kentucky is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.67 percent of the residents in 40484 has some form of health insurance. 48.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.60 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 40484 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,748 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40484. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,098 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 658 health care providers accessible to residents in 40484, Stanford, Kentucky.

Breast cancer screening and treatment access are critical components of public health. Evaluating the quality of care within a specific geographic area, such as Stanford, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40484), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Stanford, assessing primary care availability is the first step. The physician-to-patient ratio in this ZIP code is a crucial metric. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can reveal the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents. A lower ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. This impacts the early detection of breast cancer, as PCPs often initiate screening discussions and referrals.

Beyond raw numbers, the specific types of primary care practices in Stanford need examination. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often have the advantage of shared resources, potentially including more advanced diagnostic equipment or specialized staff. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is also significant. These centers, by their mission, often serve underserved populations and may offer sliding-scale fees, making care more accessible.

Next, the availability of specialists, particularly those directly involved in breast cancer care, is paramount. While Stanford may not have its own dedicated oncologists or breast surgeons, the proximity to these specialists in nearby cities like Lexington or Danville is essential. The ease of referral and the travel time to access these specialists significantly impact the patient experience. The existence of established referral networks between Stanford PCPs and these specialists is a positive indicator.

The characteristics of the primary care practices themselves contribute to the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that emphasize preventative care, including routine breast cancer screenings (mammograms), receive higher marks. This involves actively reminding patients about screening guidelines and offering convenient scheduling options. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between providers, allowing for seamless sharing of patient information and improved care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer telehealth consultations can improve access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists located further away. Telemedicine can also be beneficial for providing educational resources about breast cancer and its treatment. The availability of virtual support groups or online educational materials further enhances the score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, within the primary care practices or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and offer integrated mental health services receive higher marks. The existence of support groups or resources for coping with the emotional impact of breast cancer is also a positive factor.

Standout practices in Stanford would be those that demonstrate a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care. This includes a strong emphasis on preventative care, a commitment to patient education, and the integration of mental health services. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting breast cancer awareness and screening, also deserve recognition. Practices that utilize patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling enhance the patient experience.

To provide a more comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score," it's also necessary to consider the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography, within the ZIP code or in close proximity. The frequency of these services, the use of advanced technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and the speed with which results are reported are all important considerations. The accreditation of imaging facilities by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) can also be a factor.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and the adoption of new technologies and services. The score is designed to be a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to assess the quality of breast cancer care in Stanford and to identify areas for improvement.

The analysis also needs to consider the socioeconomic factors of the population in Stanford. The percentage of residents living below the poverty line, the level of health insurance coverage, and the prevalence of other chronic diseases can all impact access to care and treatment outcomes. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer culturally competent care receive higher marks.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" should be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weights assigned to each factor should reflect their relative importance in determining the quality of care. For example, physician-to-patient ratio, access to specialists, and the availability of diagnostic imaging services might be given higher weights than the availability of patient portals.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a more in-depth assessment of breast cancer care in Stanford. It highlights the key factors that contribute to the quality of care and provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape. By using data and objective criteria, it's possible to create a "Breast Cancer Score" that can be used to improve patient outcomes and promote better health in the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Stanford, including the location of practices, specialists, and imaging facilities, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed overview of the available resources and help you understand the geographic distribution of care.