42459, Sturgis, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.44 percent of the residents in 42459 has some form of health insurance. 48.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.45 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 42459 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 680 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42459. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 889 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 186 health care providers accessible to residents in 42459, Sturgis, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Sturgis, KY (ZIP Code 42459)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Sturgis, Kentucky (ZIP code 42459), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, and the resources available for patients. The goal is to create a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes, including access to care, physician expertise, and supportive services. This assessment aims to provide a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a strong primary care infrastructure. Early detection, prompt referrals, and ongoing support are all significantly influenced by the quality and accessibility of primary care physicians. In Sturgis, evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first step. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of the potential strain on existing resources. A high ratio, indicating a larger patient load per physician, could potentially limit the time and attention each patient receives, impacting the thoroughness of screenings, the timeliness of referrals, and the overall patient experience. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be used to calculate this ratio, providing a benchmark for comparison against state and national averages.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. Factors like experience, specialization, and commitment to continuing medical education are all relevant. Identifying physicians with specific training in women's health or a demonstrated interest in breast cancer screening and prevention is crucial. Evaluating the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for screening, such as mammography recommendations from the American Cancer Society or the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, is also essential. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines are more likely to provide optimal care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized services. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, access to specialists is vital for diagnosis and treatment. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals. The proximity of these specialists to Sturgis and the ease with which patients can access them are important factors. Travel time, appointment wait times, and the availability of transportation assistance for patients are all considerations. Examining referral patterns from primary care physicians in Sturgis to specialists in nearby cities or regional medical centers will provide insights into the existing healthcare network.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Sturgis is an important indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for routine care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the patient experience with these services will contribute to the overall score.

Breast cancer treatment and recovery can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Sturgis or in close proximity is a key factor. Evaluating the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources specifically tailored to breast cancer patients is also essential. This includes assessing the integration of mental health services into the primary care practices and the ease with which patients can access these resources.

Standout practices within the community deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care, as evidenced by factors such as high patient satisfaction scores, a proactive approach to screening and prevention, and a strong emphasis on patient education, is important. These practices can serve as models for others and contribute to raising the overall standard of care within the community. This could involve researching patient reviews, conducting interviews with healthcare providers, and analyzing data on screening rates and referral patterns.

The "Breast Cancer Score" should also incorporate an assessment of community resources. This includes the availability of patient navigation services, which can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, access financial assistance, and connect with support groups. The presence of community health programs focused on breast cancer awareness, education, and early detection is also a positive indicator. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can enhance the overall support system for breast cancer patients.

The final score should be presented in a clear and concise format, summarizing the key findings of the analysis. This could involve a numerical score, a letter grade, or a combination of both. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used, the factors considered, and the rationale behind the scoring system. The analysis should also identify areas of strength and weakness within the Sturgis healthcare system, providing recommendations for improvement. This could include suggestions for increasing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, enhancing mental health resources, and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations.

This comprehensive analysis, culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score," provides a valuable assessment of breast cancer care in Sturgis, Kentucky. It highlights the critical role of primary care physicians, the importance of access to specialists and mental health resources, and the potential of telemedicine to improve patient outcomes. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, we can work towards creating a more supportive and effective environment for breast cancer patients.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sturgis, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, explore the interactive maps available at CartoChrome. These maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.