42788, White Mills, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 42788, White Mills, Kentucky is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.36 percent of the residents in 42788 has some form of health insurance. 35.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.40 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 42788 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42788. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 358 health care providers accessible to residents in 42788, White Mills, Kentucky.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: White Mills, KY (ZIP Code 42788)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within the ZIP code 42788, focusing on White Mills, Kentucky. It considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, including physician accessibility, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape. This analysis is not a definitive medical guide, and all healthcare decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in readily available primary care physicians (PCPs). In White Mills, the assessment begins with evaluating the PCP-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, coupled with local population estimates, are essential for calculating this ratio. A concerningly low ratio necessitates further investigation into the factors contributing to this shortage, such as physician recruitment challenges, geographic isolation, and the overall health of the community.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' commitment to preventative care, including adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines. This involves examining the frequency of mammogram recommendations, the utilization of risk assessment tools, and the practice's ability to effectively educate patients about breast health. Practices that actively promote early detection through patient education materials, reminder systems for screenings, and a proactive approach to risk assessment will receive higher scores.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The analysis must consider the proximity and accessibility of oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists specializing in breast cancer. This includes evaluating the number of specialists within a reasonable driving distance, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the availability of multidisciplinary care teams, which are vital for coordinated and comprehensive treatment plans. The presence of specialized breast centers, offering a full spectrum of services under one roof, significantly enhances the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like White Mills. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care, especially for those facing geographical barriers or transportation limitations. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telehealth into the practice's workflow are all factors considered in the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for breast cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the local community. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, offer referrals to mental health professionals, and integrate mental health support into their care plans will receive higher scores.

Standout practices within White Mills and the surrounding areas are identified through a combination of publicly available data, patient reviews, and potentially, local physician interviews. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to preventative care, their utilization of advanced technologies, their patient-centered approach, or their integration of mental health services. Highlighting these standout practices serves as a model for other providers and helps patients identify the best options for their needs.

The analysis considers the presence of community resources that support breast cancer patients. This includes organizations that offer financial assistance, transportation services, or support groups. The availability and accessibility of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to navigate the challenges of diagnosis and treatment. The analysis assesses the awareness of these resources among local healthcare providers and the ease with which patients can access them.

The “Breast Cancer Score” is a composite measure reflecting the collective strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in White Mills. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment that considers multiple factors. The score is designed to inform patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders about the quality of breast cancer care available in the area.

The process involves gathering data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community organizations. This data is then analyzed and weighted based on its importance to patient outcomes. The final score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in White Mills.

The analysis is not static. It is designed to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new providers, the adoption of new technologies, or changes in community resources. This ensures that the "Breast Cancer Score" remains a relevant and valuable tool for assessing the quality of breast cancer care in White Mills.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for White Mills (ZIP Code 42788) will be a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the quality of breast cancer care in the area. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and offering insights into how to improve access to care. The goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and to encourage healthcare providers to strive for excellence in breast cancer care.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community support services, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.