42450, Providence, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42450, Providence, Kentucky is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.20 percent of the residents in 42450 has some form of health insurance. 44.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.60 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 42450 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 667 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42450. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 713 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 881 health care providers accessible to residents in 42450, Providence, Kentucky.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Providence, KY (ZIP Code 42450)**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within Providence, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42450) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the identification of standout practices. This is not a simple ranking; it's an assessment of the factors influencing breast cancer care accessibility and quality.

The foundation of any breast cancer care system rests on accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing patient management. In Providence, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Data regarding the number of PCPs serving the population of 42450, compared to the overall population size, provides a physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to determine Providence's relative standing.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of those physicians is also important. Are the PCPs concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the community? Dispersion can increase accessibility for residents in various parts of the ZIP code. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available – whether they are single-physician practices, group practices, or affiliated with larger healthcare systems – can influence the resources available to patients. Group practices, for instance, often have access to a wider range of specialists and support services.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Providence. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians for follow-up appointments, discuss test results, and receive mental health support without traveling long distances. The availability of telemedicine options, including the types of services offered and the ease of use, can have a significant impact on the quality of care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is critical for supporting patients through their journey. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community. Assessing the availability of these resources within Providence and the surrounding areas is essential.

Identifying standout practices within Providence requires looking beyond the basic metrics. This includes evaluating the quality of care provided by individual practices. Factors to consider include the experience of the physicians, the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, including mammograms and other imaging techniques, are particularly valuable.

Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research are often at the forefront of advancements in breast cancer care. The presence of these types of practices can significantly improve the quality of care available to patients in Providence. This can be determined by reviewing the practice’s affiliations with hospitals and research institutions.

The integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs), is also an important factor. EHRs can improve communication between physicians, streamline administrative tasks, and provide patients with access to their medical information. Practices that have effectively implemented EHRs are often better equipped to provide coordinated and efficient care.

The availability of patient navigators or care coordinators is another critical element. These individuals help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout the diagnosis, treatment, and recovery process. Patient navigators can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding medical information, and accessing financial assistance programs.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Providence, KY (ZIP Code 42450) is a composite of these factors. It's not a single number, but rather an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices all contribute to the overall score.

Improving the "Breast Cancer Score" requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders. Healthcare providers can focus on improving access to care, expanding telemedicine options, and integrating mental health services. Community organizations can provide support and resources for patients. Local and state governments can invest in healthcare infrastructure and promote public health initiatives.

By understanding the current state of breast cancer care in Providence, KY (ZIP Code 42450), healthcare providers, patients, and community members can work together to improve access to care, enhance the quality of treatment, and ultimately improve outcomes for individuals affected by breast cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Providence, KY (ZIP Code 42450), including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, data-driven maps that can help you visualize the accessibility of healthcare services in your community.