24716, Bud, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24716, Bud, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24716 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.18 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 24716 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 72 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24716. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 168 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 24716, Bud, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24716 & Primary Care in Bud

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 24716, focusing on physician availability, primary care access in the broader Bud region, and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This score is not a single number but a qualitative evaluation based on the factors detailed below.

**Physician Availability and Patient Ratios:**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is access to qualified medical professionals. This includes primary care physicians (PCPs) for initial screenings and referrals, radiologists for mammograms and diagnostic imaging, oncologists for treatment, and surgeons for biopsies and surgical interventions. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within 24716 is crucial. Data on the number of PCPs, radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons actively practicing within the ZIP code, and their respective patient loads, is fundamental. A high patient-to-physician ratio, especially for specialists, can indicate potential bottlenecks in care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Further, the analysis needs to extend beyond 24716 to understand the broader Bud region's impact. Patients in 24716 may seek care outside their immediate ZIP code. Assessing the availability of specialists within a reasonable driving distance is essential. This includes identifying hospitals and clinics offering comprehensive breast cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, where various specialists collaborate on patient care, is a significant positive indicator.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within or serving 24716 is vital. These practices often demonstrate best practices in breast cancer care. This could include early adoption of advanced screening technologies like 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), utilization of genetic testing for risk assessment, and participation in clinical trials offering cutting-edge treatment options.

Analyzing the patient experience at these practices is also important. This includes evaluating patient satisfaction scores, wait times for appointments, and the availability of patient navigators who guide patients through the complex healthcare system. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive support services, and foster a compassionate environment are more likely to achieve positive outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by physicians and practices serving 24716 is critical. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, particularly for patients in remote areas, and improve access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

The analysis should also consider the technological infrastructure available to patients. This includes assessing internet access and digital literacy levels within the community. Ensuring that patients have the necessary resources to participate in telemedicine appointments is crucial for equitable access to care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score. This includes assessing the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care.

The analysis should identify practices that integrate mental health services into their care models. This could include offering on-site counseling, referring patients to mental health professionals, and providing access to support groups. The availability of resources to address the psychological and emotional challenges associated with breast cancer significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

**Primary Care Availability in Bud:**

Primary care is the gateway to early detection and prevention of breast cancer. The availability of PCPs in the broader Bud region is a critical factor. The analysis should assess the number of PCPs serving the Bud area, their patient loads, and the ease with which patients can access appointments.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the PCP's commitment to breast cancer screening. This includes assessing the frequency with which PCPs recommend mammograms, the use of risk assessment tools, and the availability of patient education materials. PCPs play a vital role in educating patients about breast cancer risk factors and the importance of regular screenings.

**Overall Assessment and Score:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 24716 and the Bud region is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. A high score indicates excellent access to qualified physicians, advanced screening and treatment options, readily available telemedicine services, and comprehensive mental health support. A lower score indicates potential challenges, such as limited physician availability, lack of advanced technologies, inadequate mental health resources, and barriers to accessing care.

The analysis should also identify areas for improvement. This could include increasing the number of specialists, expanding telemedicine services, enhancing mental health support, and improving patient education. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of breast cancer care and to identify opportunities to enhance the quality of care for patients in 24716 and the surrounding Bud region.

By understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within the region, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work together to improve breast cancer outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including physician availability, access to specialized services, and the integration of mental health support, is critical for improving breast cancer care. Visualizing this data can provide powerful insights.

**Click here to explore the breast cancer care landscape in 24716 and Bud with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, access to care, and areas needing improvement. Empower yourself with data-driven insights. Explore the maps today!**