24733, Lashmeet, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24733, Lashmeet, West Virginia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.74 percent of the residents in 24733 has some form of health insurance. 63.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.87 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 24733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,402 health care providers accessible to residents in 24733, Lashmeet, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 24733, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, particularly in Lashmeet, West Virginia. This evaluation considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care often begins with accessible and responsive primary care. Early detection, regular screenings, and the establishment of a strong patient-physician relationship are all critical components. Lashmeet, a small community within 24733, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The rural nature of the area can impact access to healthcare services, potentially leading to longer travel times for appointments and limited choices in providers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can indicate potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and other public health sources will be needed to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 24733 and specifically within Lashmeet. This data, when available, would provide a baseline for understanding the existing capacity of the healthcare system to serve the community's needs.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the breadth of services offered, the adoption of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening services (mammograms, clinical breast exams), and demonstrate a commitment to patient education are particularly valuable. Further, practices that have a history of successful patient outcomes, evidenced through data and peer reviews, are also highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve a wider patient base and improve the continuity of care. The availability of telehealth services can be a significant advantage for patients in Lashmeet, who may face challenges in traveling to larger medical centers.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of support groups and educational programs can also contribute to improved mental well-being.

The specific practices and resources available in Lashmeet and the surrounding areas within 24733 require a detailed investigation. Publicly available data, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) physician directories and state medical board websites, can provide information on the location and specialties of healthcare providers. Patient reviews and online ratings can offer insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels. Further, contacting local healthcare providers directly can reveal details about the services they offer, their telemedicine capabilities, and their partnerships with mental health professionals.

The analysis must consider the impact of healthcare disparities. Rural communities often face unique challenges in accessing healthcare, including transportation limitations, financial constraints, and a shortage of specialists. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach, including efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, expand insurance coverage, and recruit and retain healthcare professionals in underserved areas.

The evaluation will need to consider the availability of breast cancer screening services. This includes the presence of mammography units, the availability of qualified radiologists, and the process for scheduling appointments. The proximity of these services to Lashmeet residents is a crucial factor.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of support services for breast cancer patients. This includes access to patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, and support groups, which provide emotional support and a sense of community.

The assessment of primary care availability in Lashmeet should extend beyond the number of physicians. It should also consider the availability of ancillary services, such as laboratory testing and pharmacy services. The convenience of these services can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and comprehensive care.

The evaluation of telemedicine adoption should consider the types of services offered via telehealth. Some practices may offer virtual consultations, while others may provide remote monitoring of vital signs or medication management services. The breadth of telehealth services offered can significantly impact the accessibility and convenience of care.

The analysis should also consider the integration of technology in patient care. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs), which can improve communication between providers and enhance the coordination of care. The use of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers, can also improve patient engagement.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis should consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, and the integration of mental health services into the care model. The availability of support groups and educational programs can also contribute to improved mental well-being.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for doctors in ZIP code 24733, and particularly the primary care availability in Lashmeet, will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed. It will require a thorough investigation and data analysis. This score would ideally be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology and the weighting assigned to each factor. This transparency is crucial for understanding the basis of the score and its limitations.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24733, including the location of medical practices, the availability of resources, and potential areas of need, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, helping to identify patterns and trends.