42266, Pembroke, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42266, Pembroke, Kentucky is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 70.80 percent of the residents in 42266 has some form of health insurance. 38.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.24 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 42266 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 874 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42266. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 381 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,181 health care providers accessible to residents in 42266, Pembroke, Kentucky.

The task of assessing the quality of breast cancer care and primary care availability within a specific geographic area, like Pembroke, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42266), requires a multi-faceted approach. A "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, while not a formal metric, can provide a valuable understanding of the resources available to patients. This analysis will focus on the key elements impacting care: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Pembroke, a small town, may present unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The first step involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians and specialists (particularly oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons) practicing within the 42266 ZIP code or within a reasonable commuting distance. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and state medical boards can provide this information. A low ratio of physicians to the population indicates potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and possibly a greater degree of choice for patients. The analysis should also consider the age and experience of the physicians, as well as their board certifications, which are indicators of their expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards of care.

Identifying "standout practices" is crucial. This requires researching the reputation and performance of medical practices in the area. Online reviews from patients, while subjective, can offer insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Additionally, analyzing the types of services offered by each practice is important. Does the practice offer comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnostic imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs), surgical options, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy? Practices that offer a full spectrum of care, including access to clinical trials, often receive higher marks. Furthermore, the accreditation status of these practices, such as those from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, can serve as a quality indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to consult with physicians remotely, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Pembroke. The analysis needs to determine which primary care physicians and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and secure communication platforms for patient-physician interaction. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel for patients.

Mental health resources are an essential component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the 42266 ZIP code or nearby. This includes identifying mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. The analysis should also consider the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage, appointment availability, and the option of telemedicine for mental health consultations.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area would be a composite of these factors. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a wider range of services, and a more supportive environment for patients. A lower score would highlight potential gaps in care and areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis might reveal that Pembroke, Kentucky, faces challenges related to physician shortages and limited access to specialized services. In such a scenario, the analysis could suggest recommendations for improvement, such as recruiting more physicians to the area, encouraging the adoption of telemedicine, and increasing the availability of mental health resources. The analysis might also highlight the importance of regional partnerships, where Pembroke residents could access specialized care in nearby cities like Hopkinsville or Clarksville.

The final assessment would need to acknowledge the limitations of the data. Publicly available information may not always provide a complete picture of the quality of care. Patient experiences can vary widely, and individual needs and preferences play a significant role in healthcare outcomes.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Pembroke, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42266), requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis, while complex, can offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identify opportunities to improve patient care.

Are you looking to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in your area? CartoChrome maps can provide interactive, data-rich visualizations that allow you to explore physician density, service availability, and other crucial factors influencing breast cancer care and primary care availability. Explore the possibilities and gain a new perspective on your community's healthcare landscape with CartoChrome maps.