40062, Saint Francis, Kentucky Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 40062, Saint Francis, Kentucky is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 40062 has some form of health insurance. 74.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.84 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 40062 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 41 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 40062. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 653 health care providers accessible to residents in 40062, Saint Francis, Kentucky.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 40062 & Saint Francis

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on two key elements: the availability and quality of primary care within Saint Francis, and a "Prostate Cancer Score" ranking for physicians practicing within the 40062 ZIP code. The Prostate Cancer Score will encompass factors relevant to prostate cancer care, including early detection, treatment options, and patient support.

The 40062 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Shelbyville, Kentucky, presents a unique healthcare landscape. While a rural setting can present challenges, it also offers opportunities for community-focused care. The presence of Saint Francis Hospital, though the specific location is not provided, suggests a central point for healthcare services. We will evaluate the availability of primary care within Saint Francis, considering its impact on early detection and management of prostate cancer.

**Primary Care Availability in Saint Francis:**

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in accessible and quality primary care. Regular checkups and screenings are crucial for early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Evaluating primary care availability involves several considerations.

First, we must assess the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio indicates a greater availability of primary care physicians, potentially leading to shorter wait times for appointments and more personalized care. Data from sources like the American Medical Association and the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure would be necessary to determine the specific physician-to-population ratio within the Saint Francis area. This data would then be compared to national and state averages to assess the relative availability of primary care.

Second, we need to examine the types of primary care practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or larger integrated healthcare systems? Group practices often offer a wider range of services and may have extended hours, improving access. Integrated systems can streamline care coordination, which is especially important for patients navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.

Third, the adoption of telemedicine is a critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The availability of telehealth appointments for routine checkups, medication refills, and follow-up consultations would be a positive indicator.

**Prostate Cancer Score for Physicians in 40062:**

Developing a "Prostate Cancer Score" for physicians requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors related to prostate cancer care. This score aims to provide a relative ranking, highlighting physicians who excel in various aspects of patient care.

The first key component is early detection. This involves assessing the physician's commitment to prostate cancer screening, specifically the frequency and appropriateness of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams (DRE). The score would consider whether the physician adheres to current guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) regarding screening recommendations based on age, risk factors, and family history.

The second component is treatment options. The score would evaluate the physician's knowledge of and access to various treatment modalities, including active surveillance, surgery (e.g., radical prostatectomy), radiation therapy (e.g., external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy), and hormonal therapy. The ability to discuss these options with patients in a clear and understandable manner, considering individual patient preferences and disease characteristics, is crucial.

The third component is patient support. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The score would consider the physician's access to and referral to mental health resources, such as therapists and support groups. The availability of patient education materials, including information on side effects and management strategies, would also be evaluated.

The fourth component is adherence to quality metrics. The score would consider the physician's performance on quality indicators related to prostate cancer care, such as the percentage of patients undergoing appropriate screening, the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, and patient satisfaction scores.

The fifth component is experience and specialization. The score would consider the physician's years of experience in treating prostate cancer, as well as any specialized training or certifications, such as board certification in urology or fellowship training in urologic oncology.

**Standout Practices and Telemedicine Adoption:**

Identifying standout practices within the 40062 ZIP code requires gathering data on the factors mentioned above. This would involve reviewing physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to early detection, offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, and prioritize patient support would be considered high-scoring.

Telemedicine adoption is a key differentiator. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education would receive higher scores. This demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of prostate cancer care. Physicians who actively screen for and address mental health concerns, and who have established referral pathways to therapists, counselors, and support groups, would be recognized. The presence of on-site mental health professionals or partnerships with local mental health organizations would be highly valued.

**Conclusion:**

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access and quality in the 40062 ZIP code and the surrounding Saint Francis area. The Prostate Cancer Score, combined with an assessment of primary care availability, offers a comprehensive perspective on the healthcare landscape. To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare resources available in this area, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare providers, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice details, and other relevant information.