41174, South Portsmouth, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41174, South Portsmouth, Kentucky is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.43 percent of the residents in 41174 has some form of health insurance. 41.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.63 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 41174 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41174. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 497 health care providers accessible to residents in 41174, South Portsmouth, Kentucky.

The analysis below assesses breast cancer care within the geographical parameters of ZIP code 41174 (South Portsmouth, Kentucky) and the availability of primary care services, crucial elements in early detection and treatment. This evaluation considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support, all vital components of a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio in South Portsmouth, Kentucky, and the surrounding area of 41174, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards must be consulted to determine the precise ratio. A shortage of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a particular concern, as they are often the first point of contact and play a crucial role in screening and referral for breast cancer. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also essential. Access to these specialists within a reasonable travel distance is another key indicator.

Primary care availability in South Portsmouth is directly linked to breast cancer outcomes. Regular check-ups with a PCP are fundamental for breast cancer screening, including mammograms and clinical breast exams. The presence of established primary care practices within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas is therefore paramount. Evaluating the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management) provides a clear picture of access. Furthermore, the availability of women’s health specialists within these practices, or through referral networks, significantly impacts the quality of care.

Identifying standout practices in the 41174 ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in patient care, including early detection protocols, patient education, and coordinated care. Evaluating these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews, online ratings, and testimonials provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Examining the practices’ adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment is also important. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs, and demonstrate a commitment to continuing medical education for their staff, are more likely to deliver high-quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like South Portsmouth. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring of patients, and offer convenient follow-up appointments. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of medical practices in the area is therefore crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, the types of services offered via telehealth, and the ease of use of the technology for both patients and providers. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face transportation challenges or live in remote locations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in the 41174 area involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, support groups), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability). Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is ideal for providing comprehensive care.

Specific examples of practices within the 41174 ZIP code would need to be identified through research. This would involve searching online directories, consulting with local healthcare providers, and reviewing publicly available data. The analysis would then evaluate each practice based on the criteria outlined above: physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The evaluation would also include an assessment of the practice’s commitment to patient education and support services, such as patient navigators or support groups.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the 41174 ZIP code would be a composite score based on the weighted average of these factors. Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance in determining the quality of breast cancer care. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, although all factors are important. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The analysis would also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem in the region. This includes the availability of hospitals, imaging centers, and cancer treatment facilities. The proximity of these facilities to the 41174 ZIP code is a key factor in determining access to care. Furthermore, the analysis would consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact breast cancer outcomes, such as poverty, insurance coverage, and access to transportation.

The results of this analysis would be valuable for several stakeholders. Patients could use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Healthcare providers could use the information to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing the quality of care. Policymakers could use the information to allocate resources and to develop programs to address the unmet needs of patients. The information would also be useful for researchers who are studying breast cancer care and outcomes.

In conclusion, understanding the breast cancer care landscape in South Portsmouth, Kentucky, requires a thorough assessment of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. By analyzing these factors, it is possible to develop a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ that can be used to evaluate the quality of care and to identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. Explore the spatial relationships and uncover valuable insights about healthcare access in your area.