24848, Jenkinjones, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24848, Jenkinjones, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24848 has some form of health insurance. 90.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 9.89 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 24848 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 24848. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 404 health care providers accessible to residents in 24848, Jenkinjones, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Jenkinjones, WV (ZIP Code 24848)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 24848, specifically concerning breast cancer care, presents a complex challenge. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like physician availability, specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all within the context of the Jenkinjones community and its surrounding areas. This score is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed evaluation based on available data and publicly accessible information.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact for patients, crucial for initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. Assessing primary care availability in Jenkinjones reveals a potential area of concern. The physician-to-patient ratio in this region is likely strained, given the rural nature of the area and potential challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making timely screenings and diagnoses more difficult.

Specialized breast cancer services, including oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, are critical for comprehensive care. The presence of these specialists within or near ZIP code 24848 significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring cities or counties, such as Bluefield or Princeton, becomes a crucial factor. Patients in Jenkinjones may need to travel significant distances for specialized care, potentially creating logistical and financial burdens, ultimately affecting their access to timely and effective treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups. Evaluating the level of telemedicine integration within the local healthcare system is essential. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources would receive a higher score. The ability to access these services can greatly improve the patient experience and ensure continuity of care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a key indicator of the quality of care. Assessing the availability of these resources, including their integration with the medical system, is vital. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or provide referrals to mental health professionals would receive a higher score.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific providers within and around ZIP code 24848. This involves researching individual practices, examining their services, and evaluating their patient reviews. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), the expertise of the medical staff, and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer comprehensive support services, and demonstrate a strong commitment to patient education would be considered top performers.

The impact of insurance coverage cannot be ignored. Access to quality breast cancer care is heavily influenced by insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is a crucial factor. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are uninsured or underinsured also plays a vital role. Practices that actively assist patients in navigating insurance complexities and accessing financial resources would receive a higher score.

Community outreach and education initiatives also contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that actively engage in community outreach, such as organizing breast cancer awareness events, providing educational materials, and partnering with local organizations, demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of the community. These efforts help raise awareness, promote early detection, and encourage patients to seek timely medical attention.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 24848, based on this analysis, would likely reflect the challenges inherent in a rural healthcare setting. While the specific score would be determined by a detailed assessment of all the factors mentioned, the overall picture suggests potential limitations in access to specialized services, the need for improved telemedicine adoption, and the importance of strengthening mental health support. The physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a significant hurdle, potentially impacting the timeliness of screenings and diagnoses.

The surrounding areas, such as Bluefield and Princeton, may offer more comprehensive services. The ability of patients in Jenkinjones to access these services, either through travel or telemedicine, is crucial. The presence of a well-established referral network between primary care physicians and specialists is also a vital factor.

The need for a proactive approach to improving breast cancer care in Jenkinjones is clear. This includes efforts to recruit and retain medical professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase access to mental health support. Community-based initiatives to raise awareness and promote early detection are also essential.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 24848 and surrounding areas, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of these critical factors, allowing for a more informed assessment of the healthcare environment.