42376, Utica, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42376, Utica, Kentucky is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.84 percent of the residents in 42376 has some form of health insurance. 34.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.76 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 42376 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42376. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 998 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,114 health care providers accessible to residents in 42376, Utica, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Utica, KY (ZIP Code 42376)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 42376 (Utica, KY), examining the availability and quality of primary care services, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. Utica, a relatively small community, likely faces challenges in maintaining a high density of primary care physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per primary care physician is high, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio, reflecting a greater availability of primary care providers, allows for more proactive screening, early detection, and improved patient outcomes.

Assessing the primary care availability necessitates understanding the types of practices present in Utica. Are there solo practitioners, or are there group practices or larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and may have better resources for patient education and support. The presence of family medicine, internal medicine, and women's health specialists within the primary care network is crucial, as each brings unique expertise to the table.

Identifying 'standout practices' requires a deeper dive into the quality of care. This includes evaluating the practices' commitment to evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Do they consistently recommend mammograms for women of appropriate ages and risk profiles? Do they have protocols for managing patients with abnormal findings? Do they offer patient navigation services to help guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system? Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those offered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions can significantly improve access to care for patients in Utica. Telemedicine can reduce travel time and costs, making it easier for patients to receive timely care. The availability of virtual screening programs, allowing patients to receive educational materials and schedule mammograms online, would be a significant advantage. The presence of telemedicine capabilities in primary care practices and specialty care providers would contribute positively to the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The integration of mental health resources into the primary care setting is essential. Do primary care physicians have access to mental health specialists for referrals? Are there on-site counselors or therapists available? Are support groups offered for breast cancer patients and their families? The availability of these resources can significantly improve the overall well-being of patients and contribute to better treatment outcomes.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Utica, KY (ZIP code 42376) would be impacted by the following factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score. The presence of multiple primary care practices, especially those with a focus on women's health, would improve the score. Practices with a strong track record of adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines and proactive patient management would receive higher marks. The adoption of telemedicine capabilities, including virtual consultations and educational resources, would be a positive factor. The availability of mental health resources, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, would significantly enhance the score.

To further refine the 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis, it is crucial to gather specific data. This includes the number of primary care physicians in the area, the types of practices available, the availability of mammography services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. Patient satisfaction surveys, if available, would provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Interviews with local healthcare providers and community members could offer a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Utica requires a multifaceted approach. It's not just about the number of physicians; it's about the quality of care they provide, the resources available to them, and their commitment to patient well-being. The 'Breast Cancer Score' should reflect the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in supporting patients through their journey.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Utica, KY (ZIP code 42376) is a complex undertaking. It demands a thorough examination of the primary care landscape, the availability of specialty services, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, ultimately contributing to improved care for breast cancer patients in the community.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Utica, KY, and beyond? Explore the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, access to care, and other crucial factors influencing the 'Breast Cancer Score' in your area.