41240, Paintsville, Kentucky Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 41240 has some form of health insurance. 53.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.29 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 41240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,332 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 41240. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 692 health care providers accessible to residents in 41240, Paintsville, Kentucky.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Paintsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41240)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Paintsville, Kentucky (ZIP Code 41240) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing the availability and quality of care related to prostate cancer. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources. The objective is to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for men at risk or diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The foundation of any healthcare analysis begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In Paintsville, a rural community, the availability of physicians, especially specialists, is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for urologists and oncologists, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis and treatment. The Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure and similar state resources are essential for gathering data on the number of licensed physicians practicing within the 41240 ZIP code. However, simply counting the number of physicians is insufficient. The analysis must also consider factors like physician specialization (e.g., urology, oncology, primary care), years of experience, and practice hours.

The presence of a hospital or medical center in the area is a critical element. Paintsville is served by Paul B. Hall Regional Medical Center, which is a vital resource. Assessing the hospital’s capabilities, including its surgical suites, diagnostic imaging equipment (e.g., MRI, CT scanners), and radiation therapy facilities, is crucial. The hospital’s accreditation status and its participation in quality improvement programs further contribute to the overall score. The availability of support staff, such as nurses, medical assistants, and patient navigators, also plays a significant role in patient care.

Identifying standout practices within the 41240 ZIP code is essential. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in prostate cancer care. This can be achieved by researching practices with board-certified urologists and oncologists. Furthermore, analyzing patient reviews, assessing the availability of advanced treatment options (e.g., robotic surgery, brachytherapy), and evaluating the practice's participation in clinical trials are important metrics. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and patient education initiatives should also be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a vital component of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Paintsville. Telemedicine allows patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices and the hospital. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used, the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer a range of virtual services will receive a higher score.

The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable. Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient’s emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the overall score. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the community. Assessing the ease of access to these resources, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan are important considerations. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer supportive services will be highly rated.

Primary care availability in Paintsville is a fundamental aspect of the prostate cancer score. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in early detection, screening, and patient education. The analysis must assess the number of PCPs practicing within the 41240 ZIP code and evaluate their accessibility. This includes considering factors like appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and the ability of PCPs to coordinate care with specialists. Practices with a strong network of PCPs and a focus on preventative care will contribute positively to the overall score.

The presence of patient education resources is a significant factor. Prostate cancer patients and their families need access to reliable and understandable information about the disease, treatment options, and support services. The analysis should evaluate the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and patient support groups. Practices that actively provide patient education and offer resources to help patients navigate their diagnosis and treatment will receive a higher score.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" will be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The score will be presented in a format that is easy to understand, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. The score will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping them to make informed decisions and improve the quality of prostate cancer care in Paintsville.

The analysis must also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Paintsville, like many rural communities, may face challenges related to poverty, transportation, and access to insurance. These factors can significantly impact a patient’s ability to receive timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis should consider these challenges and assess the efforts being made to address them.

Ultimately, the "Prostate Cancer Score" is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community’s commitment to providing high-quality care for men at risk or diagnosed with prostate cancer. It highlights areas of strength and identifies areas where improvements are needed. By providing a comprehensive and data-driven analysis, this assessment aims to contribute to better healthcare outcomes for the residents of Paintsville, Kentucky.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for analyzing and understanding the healthcare landscape in Paintsville and beyond.