24963, Peterstown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 24963, Peterstown, West Virginia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.28 percent of the residents in 24963 has some form of health insurance. 48.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.07 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 24963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 748 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24963. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 673 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 60 health care providers accessible to residents in 24963, Peterstown, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Peterstown, WV (ZIP Code 24963)

Peterstown, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Monroe County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning breast cancer detection and treatment. This analysis aims to evaluate the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care for residents of ZIP code 24963, focusing on primary care physicians, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, culminating in a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system lies in accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, responsible for routine screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Peterstown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Data suggests that rural areas like Monroe County often face shortages of PCPs compared to urban centers. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The availability of a sufficient number of PCPs is therefore a primary determinant of the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Specialist availability is another crucial component. Early detection is only the first step; access to qualified oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists is essential for effective treatment. Residents of 24963 may need to travel to larger cities like Charleston or Roanoke for specialized care, adding to the burden of diagnosis and treatment. The distance to these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of transportation options are all factors influencing the 'Breast Cancer Score'. A high score would reflect easy access to a comprehensive network of specialists.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas. Remote consultations, virtual follow-up appointments, and online educational resources can bridge geographical barriers and provide timely care. The level of telemedicine adoption among local healthcare providers in Peterstown is a key consideration. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-ups, and even mental health support, would contribute positively to the 'Breast Cancer Score'.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. The emotional and psychological toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be substantial. Access to therapists, support groups, and mental health professionals is essential for patients' well-being. The availability of these resources, whether through local providers or telehealth options, will be factored into the 'Breast Cancer Score'. A strong score would reflect readily available mental health support.

Standout practices within the 24963 ZIP code deserve specific recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care should be highlighted. This could include those that offer on-site mammography services, provide patient navigators to guide individuals through the treatment process, or actively participate in community outreach programs. These practices, by demonstrating best practices, raise the overall quality of care available in the region.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Peterstown, WV (24963) is a composite measure reflecting the interplay of these factors. It's not a single number but a nuanced assessment. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, specialist accessibility, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. It will also consider the presence of standout practices that exemplify best practices in breast cancer care. A high score indicates a robust and accessible system, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement.

The analysis will consider the following factors: the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents, the distance to the nearest oncology center, the availability of on-site mammography services, the use of telemedicine for breast cancer-related consultations, the availability of mental health support for cancer patients, and the presence of patient navigators. Each of these factors will be weighted based on their importance to patient outcomes.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' will be presented as a qualitative assessment, incorporating a detailed narrative of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Peterstown, WV. This analysis will also suggest recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' for Peterstown, WV (24963) will offer a comprehensive evaluation of breast cancer care access and quality. It will highlight the challenges faced by residents and identify opportunities for improvement. The goal is to provide valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for those affected by breast cancer in this rural community.

The analysis will consider the impact of insurance coverage on access to care. The availability of affordable health insurance, including coverage for screenings, diagnostic tests, and treatment, is a crucial factor. The analysis will also consider the demographics of the population, including age, race, and socioeconomic status, to ensure that the assessment is equitable and considers the needs of all residents.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption will include an examination of the types of services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education programs. The analysis will also consider the ease of use of telemedicine platforms and the availability of technical support for patients.

The evaluation of mental health resources will include an assessment of the availability of therapists, psychiatrists, support groups, and other mental health services. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall breast cancer care system.

The analysis will provide a detailed description of the referral pathways for breast cancer patients, from primary care physicians to specialists. The analysis will also consider the efficiency of the referral process and the coordination of care among different healthcare providers.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' will provide a valuable tool for assessing the quality of breast cancer care in Peterstown, WV. It will identify areas of strength and weakness, and it will provide recommendations for improvement. This will help to ensure that all residents of Peterstown have access to the high-quality breast cancer care they deserve.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Peterstown, WV (24963) and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations of geographic data, including healthcare resources, demographics, and other relevant information. Using CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing breast cancer care access and quality in this region.