41701, Hazard, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41701, Hazard, Kentucky is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.99 percent of the residents in 41701 has some form of health insurance. 59.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.60 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 41701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,080 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41701. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,519 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,800 health care providers accessible to residents in 41701, Hazard, Kentucky.

Breast cancer care access and quality are critical health concerns, particularly in rural areas where resources can be stretched thin. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 41701 (Hazard, Kentucky) and its primary care landscape, evaluating factors influencing breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine integration, and explore mental health resource availability, culminating in a call to action for advanced mapping solutions.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hazard, 41701, presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians (PCPs), oncologists, and radiologists. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to specialized care, and increased travel burdens for patients. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data suggests a lower-than-average physician density compared to national standards. This translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely breast cancer screening and follow-up care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective breast cancer management. PCPs play a crucial role in preventative care, including breast cancer screening recommendations, patient education, and early detection through clinical breast exams. The availability of PCPs within a reasonable distance is paramount. Assessing the number of practicing PCPs, their office hours, and their ability to accept new patients is vital. Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often extend the reach of primary care, should be considered. The overall accessibility of primary care in Hazard directly impacts the likelihood of early breast cancer detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within 41701 is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, preventative screenings, and timely referrals deserve recognition. These practices often prioritize patient education, ensuring women understand the importance of mammograms, self-exams, and follow-up appointments. They may also have streamlined processes for scheduling screenings and coordinating care with specialists. Examining patient reviews, practice accreditations, and participation in quality improvement initiatives can help identify these exemplary providers. These practices can serve as models for others, promoting best practices and improving the overall quality of breast cancer care in the region.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers a means to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. This includes consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and breast surgeons. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for more frequent check-ins and early detection of complications. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialists in 41701 directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of care for breast cancer patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. These resources can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment. Assessing the availability of mental health services, including the number of providers, their specialties, and their ability to accept new patients, is crucial. Collaboration between primary care practices, oncologists, and mental health providers is essential to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in Hazard, 41701, requires a comprehensive assessment of several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability all contribute to the overall quality of care. Addressing the challenges of physician shortages, improving access to primary care, promoting telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health services are critical steps toward improving breast cancer outcomes in this rural community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hazard and surrounding areas, consider utilizing advanced mapping solutions. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care. They can also help identify areas with limited access to resources and highlight opportunities for improvement. By leveraging the power of geographic data, healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients can gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of breast cancer care in 41701 and beyond. Explore CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare data that matters most to you.