42217, Crofton, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42217, Crofton, Kentucky is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.31 percent of the residents in 42217 has some form of health insurance. 44.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.80 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 42217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 812 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 684 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 807 health care providers accessible to residents in 42217, Crofton, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Crofton, KY (ZIP Code 42217)

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within the Crofton, Kentucky, area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, with specific attention to factors crucial for early detection and treatment. We will evaluate the physician-to-patient ratio, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing residents to better understand the healthcare resources available to them.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests heavily on the strength of the primary care system. Regular check-ups, screenings, and patient education are essential for early detection and intervention. In Crofton (42217), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing data from sources like the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and the US Census Bureau. However, a general understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure can be gleaned from publicly available information.

Analyzing the local medical landscape involves identifying the primary care practices serving the Crofton area. These practices are the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in breast cancer screening, referral, and patient education. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the availability of female physicians, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that proactively remind patients of screening appointments and offer educational materials on breast health are often considered to be performing well.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has gained prominence, especially in rural areas like Crofton. It can improve access to specialists, provide follow-up consultations, and offer educational resources. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires examining the practices' websites and contacting them directly to inquire about their telemedicine services. Practices offering virtual consultations for breast cancer screening follow-ups or providing online educational materials demonstrate a commitment to improving access and convenience for patients.

Mental health resources are also critical. A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, and access to mental health support is essential for patients. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is crucial for providing comprehensive patient care. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and refer patients to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The availability of specialized breast cancer care within the immediate Crofton area is another factor to consider. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, patients may require referrals to specialists such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists. The proximity of these specialists, the availability of diagnostic imaging services (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs), and the presence of accredited breast cancer centers are essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing these factors involves researching the availability of specialized services in nearby cities and evaluating the referral patterns of local primary care practices.

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care extends beyond the availability of services. It involves assessing the practices' commitment to preventative care, patient education, and early detection. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer patient education materials, and participate in community outreach programs demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes.

The overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for Crofton (42217) is a composite of the above factors. A higher score indicates better access to care, a strong primary care system, and a commitment to patient education and support. A lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing care and a need for improvement in specific areas. The score is not a definitive judgment but a tool to understand the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Crofton (42217) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, assessing mental health resources, and evaluating the availability of specialized care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare resources available to residents and identifying areas for improvement.

For a more detailed and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Crofton, including the locations of healthcare providers, demographics, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to easily identify resources and assess their accessibility.