41018, Erlanger, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41018, Erlanger, Kentucky is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.90 percent of the residents in 41018 has some form of health insurance. 35.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.46 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 41018 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41018. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,560 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,456 health care providers accessible to residents in 41018, Erlanger, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Erlanger, KY (ZIP Code 41018)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care access and quality for residents of Erlanger, Kentucky (ZIP code 41018), focusing on primary care physician availability and the overall healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to assess the landscape of care, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement, ultimately informing patients and healthcare providers alike. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

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

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. Regular screenings, early detection efforts, and coordinated referrals are crucial. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 41018 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas, and the ease with which patients can secure appointments. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into physician shortages. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed breast cancer diagnosis.

Beyond raw numbers, the types of primary care practices are important. Are there solo practices, larger group practices, or affiliations with major healthcare systems? Larger systems often offer more comprehensive services, including on-site mammography and streamlined referral pathways to specialists. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is also significant, as they provide affordable care to underserved populations, potentially improving access for those with limited financial resources.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare System Strengths:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into quality metrics and patient reviews. Analyzing patient satisfaction scores, as collected by organizations like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can reveal practices consistently delivering positive patient experiences. Furthermore, examining the types of services offered is crucial. Do practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits? These factors contribute to accessibility and convenience, especially important for patients undergoing cancer treatment or follow-up care.

The presence of comprehensive healthcare systems in and around Erlanger is a significant factor. Systems like St. Elizabeth Healthcare, with its multiple locations and specialized cancer centers, can provide a continuum of care, from screening to treatment and survivorship programs. The availability of multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, is a hallmark of high-quality cancer care. Evaluating the accreditation status of these centers, such as those accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, provides an objective measure of quality and adherence to established standards.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. Assessing telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and oncologists in the 41018 ZIP code is essential. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for routine checkups, medication management, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges.

The availability of virtual screening programs, such as online educational resources and self-assessment tools, can also empower patients to take a proactive role in their health. The integration of telemedicine with electronic health records (EHRs) further enhances care coordination and allows for seamless information sharing between providers. Evaluating the technological infrastructure of practices, including the use of patient portals and secure messaging systems, is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of telemedicine adoption.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. Assessing the presence of on-site mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, is essential. Does the practice offer individual therapy, group support sessions, or access to psychiatric services?

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial. Are patients routinely screened for depression and anxiety? Are referrals made to mental health specialists as needed? The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide patients with a sense of community and shared experience. Evaluating the practice's commitment to addressing the psychological needs of cancer patients is a key indicator of the overall quality of care.

**Specific Considerations for Erlanger (41018):**

The specific demographics of Erlanger, including age distribution, socioeconomic status, and racial/ethnic makeup, should inform the assessment. Are there specific programs or initiatives tailored to the needs of underserved populations? Does the healthcare system address health disparities, such as those related to access to screening or treatment? Understanding the unique characteristics of the community is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet specific needs.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Erlanger, KY (41018). It highlights the importance of primary care availability, the strengths of local healthcare systems, the impact of telemedicine, and the critical role of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their care, and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.

**Take Action:**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Erlanger and surrounding areas, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, physician locations, and demographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of access to care and identify potential gaps in services. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the maps and empower yourself with valuable information.