25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.05 percent of the residents in 25085 has some form of health insurance. 49.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.87 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 25085 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 155 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25085. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 106 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 63 health care providers accessible to residents in 25085, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Gauley Bridge, WV (ZIP Code 25085)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Gauley Bridge, West Virginia (ZIP code 25085) requires a nuanced approach. A "Breast Cancer Score" isn't a standardized metric readily available, but we can construct an analysis based on key indicators reflecting access, quality, and support. This analysis will consider factors like physician availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, painting a picture of the local environment for those facing or at risk of breast cancer.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians. In Gauley Bridge, assessing this is critical. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) can provide insights into this ratio, comparing it to state and national averages. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, raises concerns about timely access to care, including initial screenings and referrals.

Primary care availability directly impacts breast cancer detection. Early detection is paramount for successful treatment. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician allow for routine breast exams and the recommendation of mammograms. If primary care access is limited, women might delay these crucial screenings, potentially leading to later-stage diagnoses and less favorable outcomes. The analysis must consider the proximity of primary care practices to the residents of 25085, including travel times and transportation options.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are physicians well-versed in breast cancer risk factors and screening guidelines? Do they actively promote preventative care? Investigating the practices' adherence to national guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is essential. This includes evaluating the practices' use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to coordinate care with specialists.

Specialist availability is another vital component. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to early detection, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The analysis needs to pinpoint the nearest specialists and assess their accessibility. This includes evaluating wait times for appointments, the availability of specialized equipment like mammography machines, and the capacity of local hospitals or clinics to provide comprehensive breast cancer services.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to geographical barriers. Its adoption in Gauley Bridge could significantly improve access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local practices and hospitals utilize telemedicine platforms. Are virtual consultations offered? Are remote monitoring tools available? The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor in telemedicine's feasibility.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological impacts. The analysis needs to identify the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community or nearby. Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? Are mental health services integrated into the broader healthcare system? The presence of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Standout practices within the area, if any, deserve recognition. These could be clinics or hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This could involve offering a range of services, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and support. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for others in the region. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the integration of mental health services.

The analysis must also consider the socio-economic factors that impact breast cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can create significant barriers to care. The analysis should investigate the prevalence of these factors in Gauley Bridge and assess the availability of resources to address them, such as financial assistance programs and transportation services.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the community's awareness of breast cancer. Are there public health campaigns promoting early detection and screening? Are there educational resources available to the public? A well-informed community is more likely to proactively seek care and advocate for their own health.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Gauley Bridge, WV (25085) will be a composite of these factors. It will not be a single number, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment. It will highlight areas where access to care is strong and areas where improvements are needed. It will offer recommendations for improving breast cancer care in the community. This analysis will then be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gauley Bridge, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and accessibility of resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide a clear and concise overview of the factors discussed in this analysis, empowering you with the information you need to navigate the healthcare system effectively.