24849, Jesse, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24849, Jesse, West Virginia is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.20 percent of the residents in 24849 has some form of health insurance. 60.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.43 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 24849 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24849. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 24849, Jesse, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24849 & Jesse Primary Care

This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of breast cancer care within ZIP code 24849, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in the town of Jesse, West Virginia. Our assessment considers various factors crucial to a patient's journey, from initial screening and diagnosis to treatment and ongoing support. This analysis aims to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Jesse, access to primary care physicians (PCPs) is the first critical element. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially compromised early detection. Assessing the current ratio requires data on the number of practicing PCPs within the town and the total population of Jesse. Publicly available resources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the U.S. Census Bureau provide the necessary population data. The American Medical Association or the West Virginia State Medical Association can offer insights into physician counts.

Beyond the raw numbers, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute illnesses is crucial. Delays in addressing urgent health concerns can impact overall health and potentially delay the identification of early warning signs of breast cancer. The ability of PCPs to offer comprehensive preventative care, including breast cancer screenings like mammograms, is also paramount. Do the local practices actively promote and facilitate screening? Do they have established referral pathways to radiology centers equipped with advanced imaging technology? These are critical questions that need to be answered to assess the quality of primary care.

Standout practices within the 24849 ZIP code should be identified. This involves looking beyond the basic metrics. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer extended hours, or have multilingual staff are often more accessible and patient-centered. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Examining the practice's website to see if they offer educational materials on breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and self-examination techniques is also essential.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible way for patients to receive care, especially in rural areas like Jesse. The ability to schedule virtual consultations with PCPs for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations can improve access to care. Furthermore, telemedicine can facilitate access to specialists who may not be readily available in the local area. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services within local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platform, is crucial.

The mental health of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a vital role in their overall well-being and treatment outcomes. Access to mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Investigating the availability of these resources within the community, including the presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, is crucial. Does the local hospital or health system offer any mental health services? Are there any partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers?

The availability of specialized breast cancer care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, is another critical aspect of the analysis. While Jesse may not have these specialists directly, the proximity to hospitals and cancer centers in neighboring cities is important. The analysis should assess the travel time to these facilities, the availability of transportation services for patients, and the established referral pathways between local PCPs and specialists. Is there a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance? Does the local hospital have a dedicated cancer care program?

Beyond the clinical aspects, the analysis should also consider the affordability of care. The cost of breast cancer screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment can be significant. Understanding the insurance coverage accepted by local practices and hospitals, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, is essential. Are there any local organizations that provide financial support to cancer patients? Are there any initiatives to address health disparities within the community?

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and housing stability can significantly impact a patient's health outcomes. Addressing these factors through community-based programs and initiatives can improve the overall health of the population and contribute to better breast cancer outcomes. Are there any local programs that address food insecurity or provide transportation assistance to medical appointments?

In conclusion, a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 24849 requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialized care, affordability, and the impact of social determinants of health. By meticulously evaluating these factors, a clear picture of the local healthcare landscape emerges, enabling informed decision-making and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 24849, including the location of medical facilities, the proximity to specialists, and the availability of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the complexities of breast cancer care in Jesse and the surrounding areas.