41815, Ermine, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41815, Ermine, Kentucky is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.34 percent of the residents in 41815 has some form of health insurance. 86.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 28.85 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 41815 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 160 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41815. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 35 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 353 health care providers accessible to residents in 41815, Ermine, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ermine, KY (ZIP Code 41815)

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 41815, specifically focusing on Ermine, Kentucky, and the surrounding area. The goal is to evaluate the availability and quality of care, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and ongoing support for individuals affected by breast cancer. This assessment is based on publicly available data, and while it aims to be comprehensive, it should not be considered a definitive ranking.

The core of this analysis rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within Ermine and the surrounding areas. PCPs are critical gatekeepers to healthcare, often the first point of contact for patients and the individuals who facilitate screenings and referrals. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. In a rural area like Ermine, a low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can significantly impede access to care. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Examining the specific ratio within the 41815 ZIP code and comparing it to state and national averages provides a crucial baseline for understanding access.

The availability of specialists is another essential factor. While PCPs handle initial screenings and referrals, access to oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Proximity to these specialists, and the ease of access to their services, directly impacts the patient experience and the effectiveness of treatment. The analysis will consider the distance to the nearest oncology centers, the availability of surgical options, and the presence of diagnostic imaging facilities within a reasonable radius of Ermine.

Standout practices within the region will be identified based on publicly available information, including patient reviews, accreditations, and participation in quality improvement programs. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their adoption of innovative technologies, or their focus on specific aspects of breast cancer treatment and support. The analysis will consider factors such as the use of advanced imaging techniques, the availability of genetic counseling, and the integration of multidisciplinary care teams.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to care. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in the area offer telemedicine services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. This will include examining the availability of virtual appointments with PCPs, specialists, and support staff, as well as the use of remote monitoring technologies.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community. This includes assessing the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system, the availability of specialized support for cancer patients, and the accessibility of these services for individuals in Ermine.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources that support the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. This includes access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system; support groups, which provide a forum for sharing experiences and offering emotional support; and educational resources, which empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Specific practices within the 41815 ZIP code will be examined to determine their strengths and weaknesses. This will involve evaluating their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and assessing their participation in relevant quality improvement programs. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive treatment will be highlighted as potential standout providers.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on breast cancer outcomes. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural beliefs can all influence a patient's ability to access and adhere to treatment. The analysis will consider the specific challenges faced by the community in Ermine and the extent to which healthcare providers are addressing these challenges.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. The assessment relies on publicly available data, which may not always be complete or up-to-date. Furthermore, the analysis does not include a direct assessment of the quality of care provided by individual physicians. The focus is on the availability and accessibility of care, rather than the clinical outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Ermine is likely to be a significant factor in determining access to care. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare providers, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments and limited access to specialized services. The analysis will attempt to quantify the physician-to-patient ratio within the 41815 ZIP code and compare it to state and national averages.

The presence of a comprehensive breast cancer screening program is critical for early detection. The analysis will assess the availability of mammography services, the frequency of screening recommendations, and the accessibility of these services for women in Ermine. This includes examining the availability of mobile mammography units, which can help to reach women in remote areas.

The adoption of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) for image analysis and personalized medicine approaches, is also important. The analysis will consider the extent to which practices in the area are utilizing these technologies to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.

Mental health support is crucial for patients undergoing treatment. The analysis will evaluate the integration of mental health services into the healthcare system and the availability of specialized support for cancer patients. This includes examining the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups within the community.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Ermine. This will include suggestions for addressing any identified gaps in care, such as increasing the number of healthcare providers, improving access to specialized services, and enhancing the availability of mental health support.

This preliminary analysis provides a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Ermine, KY. Further investigation, including direct engagement with healthcare providers and community members, is necessary to gain a more complete and nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this area.

**Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics with CartoChrome maps. Gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ermine and beyond. Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and visualize the data discussed in this analysis.**