42159, Oakland, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42159, Oakland, Kentucky is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.02 percent of the residents in 42159 has some form of health insurance. 26.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.76 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 42159 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42159. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 264 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,561 health care providers accessible to residents in 42159, Oakland, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 42159 & Oakland Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and primary care availability, focusing on two distinct geographic areas: ZIP Code 42159 and Oakland, California. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors such as physician density, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately informing patients about the quality of care they can expect.

**ZIP Code 42159: A Rural Assessment**

ZIP Code 42159, representing a rural area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care. The primary concern is access. The "Breast Cancer Score" for this area is heavily influenced by the scarcity of specialists. Physician-to-patient ratios, especially for oncologists and radiologists, are likely to be significantly lower than in urban centers. This means longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact, performing initial screenings and referring patients to specialists. A robust primary care network is essential to ensure early detection. However, rural areas often face shortages of PCPs, further compounding the access issue. The score will reflect this, penalizing the area for limited specialist and PCP availability.

Telemedicine adoption can be a game-changer in rural settings. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive virtual follow-up appointments, and access educational resources can bridge the geographical gap. The "Breast Cancer Score" will reward practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring. However, the score will also consider the digital divide. Limited internet access or technological literacy can hinder the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment process can be emotionally taxing. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology support. Partnerships between medical practices and mental health providers, offering integrated care, will positively impact the score.

Standout practices in 42159 will be those that demonstrate innovation in overcoming access barriers. This could include mobile mammography units that visit the area, partnerships with larger medical centers for specialist consultations, or proactive patient navigation programs that help patients navigate the complex healthcare system. The "Breast Cancer Score" will highlight these practices, recognizing their commitment to patient care in a challenging environment.

**Oakland: Urban Opportunities and Challenges**

Oakland, a major urban center, presents a different set of considerations. While access to specialists is generally better than in rural areas, other factors influence the "Breast Cancer Score." Physician-to-patient ratios, while higher, can still vary significantly across different neighborhoods. The score will analyze the distribution of specialists within Oakland, identifying areas with potential shortages.

Primary care availability is also crucial. The score will evaluate the density of PCPs and the ease with which patients can secure appointments. The presence of community health centers and their role in providing accessible care will be a significant factor. The score will also consider the cultural competency of primary care providers, ensuring that they can effectively communicate with and care for Oakland's diverse population.

Telemedicine adoption is widespread in urban settings, but its implementation and effectiveness can vary. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the quality of telemedicine services, including the availability of virtual consultations with specialists, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. The score will also consider the accessibility of telemedicine for patients with limited digital literacy or access to technology.

Mental health resources are especially important in Oakland. The city's diverse population and socioeconomic disparities can contribute to increased stress and mental health challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology support, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The score will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support.

Standout practices in Oakland will be those that demonstrate excellence in patient-centered care. This could include practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, utilize advanced diagnostic technologies, provide personalized treatment plans, and offer robust support services, including mental health counseling and patient navigation. The "Breast Cancer Score" will recognize these practices, highlighting their commitment to providing high-quality care. The score will also consider the practice’s commitment to health equity, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background, have access to the care they need.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and primary care availability in ZIP Code 42159 and Oakland. The score considers a range of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. This analysis aims to empower patients with information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To visualize and further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and community health center locations, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.