42154, Knob Lick, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42154, Knob Lick, Kentucky is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 42154 has some form of health insurance. 54.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.37 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 42154 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 125 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42154. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 138 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 801 health care providers accessible to residents in 42154, Knob Lick, Kentucky.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Knob Lick, KY (ZIP Code 42154)**

This analysis examines the availability of breast cancer care resources and primary care services within and serving the Knob Lick, Kentucky (ZIP code 42154) area. The focus is on evaluating the quality and accessibility of care, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support systems. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The geographic isolation of Knob Lick presents a significant challenge. The nearest major medical centers are likely located in Bowling Green, Glasgow, or perhaps even further afield. This geographical constraint directly impacts access to specialized breast cancer care, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology. The analysis must consider the travel burden placed upon patients and the potential delays in diagnosis and treatment that can arise.

Physician-to-patient ratios are critical indicators of access. In a rural area like Knob Lick, the ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population is a foundational element. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the detection of breast cancer symptoms. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is crucial. The absence or scarcity of these specialists necessitates patients to travel to larger urban centers, increasing the strain on both patients and the healthcare system.

Standout practices within the region, or those serving the region, must be identified. This includes practices that demonstrate a commitment to breast cancer screening and early detection. These practices may implement programs like regular mammogram reminders, patient education initiatives, and streamlined referral pathways to specialists. The evaluation should consider the use of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, is a key indicator of a high-quality practice.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in bridging the geographical gap. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of telemedicine platforms for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment is also a positive indicator. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically located in the immediate vicinity of Knob Lick.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is essential. The integration of mental health professionals into the care team, including oncologists and primary care physicians, is an indicator of a patient-centered approach. The accessibility of these services, including cost and location, is also a key consideration.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Knob Lick, KY, will be significantly influenced by the availability of primary care physicians. The strength of the primary care infrastructure directly affects the ability to screen for breast cancer. The presence of PCPs who are actively involved in breast cancer screening and early detection is a major positive factor. This includes practices that follow established guidelines for mammography screening and that have strong referral pathways to specialists.

The analysis will also assess the degree to which the healthcare system in and around Knob Lick is equipped to handle the specific needs of breast cancer patients. This includes the availability of specialized services, such as breast surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, is another important factor.

The evaluation will also consider the role of community resources. The presence of local organizations that provide support to breast cancer patients, such as the American Cancer Society or local cancer support groups, is a positive factor. These organizations can provide valuable information, resources, and emotional support to patients.

The adoption of technology, especially telemedicine, will be a critical factor in the final score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of telemedicine platforms for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment is also a positive indicator.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Knob Lick, KY, is likely to be negatively impacted by the rural nature of the area and the resulting challenges in accessing specialized care. However, the score can be improved by factors such as strong primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of supportive community resources. The score will reflect the overall ability of the healthcare system to meet the needs of breast cancer patients in the area.

The analysis will also consider the cost of care. The cost of breast cancer treatment can be substantial, and the availability of financial assistance programs is a key consideration. The analysis will assess the availability of financial resources, such as grants and assistance programs, to help patients manage the cost of care.

The availability of transportation is another important factor. The ability to get to and from medical appointments can be a significant challenge for patients in rural areas. The analysis will assess the availability of transportation services, such as volunteer driver programs or public transportation, to help patients access care.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not just a numerical value; it is a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Knob Lick, KY. It is an evaluation that considers the factors that impact the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. It is a snapshot of the healthcare system's ability to meet the needs of patients.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' will be a reflection of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Knob Lick. It will highlight areas where improvements are needed and provide insights into how to improve access to care for breast cancer patients. The score will serve as a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

This analysis underscores the importance of understanding the healthcare landscape in Knob Lick. The 'Breast Cancer Score' is a starting point for assessing the quality and accessibility of care. It is a call to action to improve the healthcare system and ensure that all patients have access to the care they need.

For a detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in Knob Lick, KY, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and support services, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and discover the resources available to you.