42261, Morgantown, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42261, Morgantown, Kentucky is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.81 percent of the residents in 42261 has some form of health insurance. 46.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.31 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 42261 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,492 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42261. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,642 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 232 health care providers accessible to residents in 42261, Morgantown, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Morgantown, KY (ZIP Code 42261)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Morgantown, Kentucky, focusing on the availability and quality of services for residents of ZIP code 42261. We will assess the performance of local physicians, primary care accessibility, and supporting resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" evaluation. This score aims to provide a snapshot of the community's readiness to support individuals navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is accessible and competent primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening recommendations, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Morgantown, assessing primary care availability involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the US Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare providers will be crucial in determining this ratio. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is vital. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of the community underserved? The accessibility of these practices, considering factors like transportation options and hours of operation, also plays a significant role.

Within the context of breast cancer care, the quality of primary care extends beyond simple availability. PCPs must be well-versed in current screening guidelines, including mammography recommendations based on age and risk factors. They should proactively discuss breast cancer risk with their patients, taking into account family history, lifestyle choices, and other relevant factors. The ability to efficiently and effectively refer patients to specialized care, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is also a critical component of high-quality primary care.

Evaluating the performance of individual physicians within ZIP code 42261 requires a nuanced approach. While direct comparisons of individual doctors are often challenging due to privacy regulations, analyzing the practices they operate within provides valuable insights. We will investigate the reputation of local medical practices, considering factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, and the presence of specialized services. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening programs, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education will likely receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural communities like Morgantown. Telemedicine allows patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely, potentially reducing travel burdens and improving access to care. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine technologies, including video conferencing and remote monitoring, will be factored into the Breast Cancer Score. Practices that offer telemedicine options demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Beyond medical care, the availability of mental health resources is essential for individuals battling breast cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health services is crucial for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. This analysis will examine the availability of these resources within Morgantown, including the presence of licensed therapists, support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, and partnerships between healthcare providers and mental health professionals.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance and patient navigation. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients require financial support to cover medical bills, medications, and other related costs. The presence of local organizations that offer financial aid, such as grants or assistance programs, will be evaluated. Patient navigators play a vital role in guiding patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing education, and connecting patients with necessary resources. The availability of patient navigation services will also be considered.

The final Breast Cancer Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the collective strength of the community's resources and the performance of its healthcare providers. It will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including primary care availability, physician performance, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs. The score will provide a valuable benchmark for the community, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas for improvement.

Standout practices in Morgantown that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care, including proactive screening, patient education, and access to specialized services, will be recognized. These practices will be identified based on their adherence to best practices, patient satisfaction, and their integration of telemedicine and mental health resources.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of breast cancer care within ZIP code 42261. The insights gained can inform decisions about healthcare choices, guide community initiatives, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals affected by breast cancer in Morgantown.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Morgantown, including the location of medical practices, the distribution of resources, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the community's healthcare resources and identify areas of need.