42232, Gracey, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42232, Gracey, Kentucky is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.08 percent of the residents in 42232 has some form of health insurance. 22.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.04 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 42232 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42232. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 47 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,163 health care providers accessible to residents in 42232, Gracey, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Gracey, KY (ZIP Code 42232)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within the ZIP Code 42232, specifically focusing on Gracey, Kentucky. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for individuals seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment in this specific geographic area.

Gracey, Kentucky, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often impacts the availability of specialized medical services, including those related to breast cancer care. The analysis will consider these factors while providing a detailed assessment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Regular check-ups and screenings are vital for early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is therefore a critical first step. In 42232, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can indicate potential challenges in timely access to appointments and preventative care. This analysis will investigate the estimated physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code, considering the number of practicing PCPs and the overall population of Gracey and surrounding areas. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure will be used to estimate this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is also important. This includes the availability of comprehensive services, such as routine breast exams, referrals for mammograms, and patient education. We will examine the practices within the area, assessing their capacity to offer these services. This may involve researching the services offered by clinics and physician offices in the area.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Some practices may demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care through specific initiatives or accreditations. This could include practices that actively promote breast cancer screening, offer patient navigation services, or have established partnerships with specialized cancer centers. Research will be conducted to uncover practices that go above and beyond in providing comprehensive breast cancer care. This could include identifying practices with dedicated women's health departments or those that participate in quality improvement programs focused on breast cancer screening and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable in a rural setting. We will assess the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by primary care practices and specialists in the area. This will involve researching the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., follow-up consultations, remote monitoring), and the technology infrastructure available to support telemedicine services. The presence of telemedicine can greatly increase access to specialists, such as oncologists, and improve the efficiency of care.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health support, such as counseling and support groups, is essential for coping with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the area, including the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups that specialize in cancer care. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can greatly improve a patient's quality of life.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of local resources, such as cancer support organizations, patient advocacy groups, and community health programs. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families. The presence of these resources indicates a community-based approach to cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the proximity to larger medical centers and specialized cancer treatment facilities. While Gracey itself may not have a comprehensive cancer center, the accessibility of nearby facilities is a key factor. This involves assessing the travel time and distance to the nearest cancer centers and the availability of transportation services for patients. The proximity to these facilities will greatly affect the level of care available to the residents of Gracey.

Finally, this analysis will integrate all the factors to create a "Breast Cancer Score" for the area. This score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care in Gracey, Kentucky (42232). The score will be a relative indicator, allowing for comparisons with other areas and highlighting areas for improvement.

This score will be a tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the current state of breast cancer care in Gracey. It will identify strengths and weaknesses, guiding efforts to improve access, quality, and patient outcomes. The goal is to empower individuals with information and promote a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, effective treatment, and compassionate support for those affected by breast cancer.

The information gathered will be synthesized to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape. The analysis will strive to provide an actionable understanding of the resources available and the challenges faced by individuals seeking breast cancer care in Gracey, Kentucky.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographics, we recommend exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide an invaluable tool for understanding the spatial relationships of healthcare resources, making it easier to identify areas of need and opportunities for improvement.