24918, Ballard, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24918, Ballard, West Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.31 percent of the residents in 24918 has some form of health insurance. 59.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.10 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 24918 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 526 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24918. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 276 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 85 health care providers accessible to residents in 24918, Ballard, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ballard, WV (ZIP Code 24918)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, in a rural area like Ballard, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24918), presents unique challenges and opportunities. This analysis will examine the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative overview based on the factors discussed.

Ballard, nestled in Monroe County, is characterized by its sparse population and geographical limitations. This immediately impacts healthcare access. The availability of primary care physicians forms the bedrock of any effective breast cancer screening and treatment pathway. Early detection is crucial, and a strong primary care network is vital for regular checkups, referrals to specialists, and patient education. The success of breast cancer management hinges on the strength of this initial point of contact.

Physician-to-patient ratios in rural areas like Ballard are often a concern. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. This scarcity necessitates careful consideration of resource allocation and innovative healthcare delivery models. Data from state and national sources will be crucial in establishing a baseline physician-to-patient ratio for the area.

Identifying standout practices within the 24918 ZIP code is essential. These practices may be characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, their proactive approach to breast cancer screening, and their use of evidence-based practices. A practice might excel in patient education, providing comprehensive information about risk factors, self-examination techniques, and the importance of regular mammograms. Another may have a strong track record of early detection and successful treatment outcomes. Researching patient reviews, physician credentials, and the availability of specialized services (e.g., on-site mammography) will help distinguish these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the geographical barriers that limit access to healthcare in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in the 24918 ZIP code could significantly improve breast cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with specialists for second opinions, follow-up appointments, and ongoing support. This is especially important for patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances for in-person appointments. The availability of reliable internet access is a critical factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is vital. These resources can provide patients with the support they need to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their illness.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves examining the presence of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of support groups, and the accessibility of mental health services. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is essential to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.

Based on the factors discussed, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Ballard, WV (ZIP Code 24918) is likely to be moderate, with some areas of strength and some areas of weakness. The rural nature of the area presents significant challenges, particularly concerning physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized services. The potential for improvement lies in the adoption of telemedicine, the development of strong referral networks, and the integration of mental health resources into the care pathway. The identification and promotion of standout practices within the area can also contribute to improved outcomes.

A thorough assessment would require detailed data collection and analysis. This includes gathering information on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services. Patient feedback and community input are also essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ballard.

The analysis of healthcare data can be complex, requiring the integration of various datasets and the use of sophisticated analytical tools. Visualizing this data through maps can significantly enhance understanding and facilitate informed decision-making. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology allows for the creation of interactive maps that display healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant information.

CartoChrome maps offer a powerful solution for visualizing healthcare data. Their platform allows for the creation of interactive maps that can be used to identify healthcare gaps, assess resource allocation, and track progress over time. By visualizing the data, stakeholders can gain a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care in Ballard, WV (ZIP Code 24918).

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