25314, Charleston, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25314, Charleston, West Virginia is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.65 percent of the residents in 25314 has some form of health insurance. 37.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.04 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 25314 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,091 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25314. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,733 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,899 health care providers accessible to residents in 25314, Charleston, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Charleston, WV (ZIP Code 25314)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within the 25314 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and the quality of physician services. The goal is to understand the landscape of care for individuals facing breast cancer or at risk, offering insights into access, quality, and resources. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather a nuanced look at the factors impacting care in the specified area.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care begins with accessible and quality primary care. In Charleston, West Virginia, and specifically within the 25314 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can potentially strain resources and impact appointment wait times. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the American Medical Association is essential to determine the precise ratio within the 25314 area. This data, however, needs constant updating due to fluctuations in physician availability and population changes.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices is also crucial. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, creating potential access disparities for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? Examining the geographic distribution of practices, coupled with transportation options, reveals potential gaps in care access. Public transportation availability, particularly for those without personal vehicles, is a significant factor.

The quality of primary care is also paramount. This involves assessing the adoption of preventative care practices, such as routine breast cancer screenings (mammograms), and the provision of patient education. Practices that proactively engage in early detection efforts, offering reminders for screenings and providing comprehensive information about breast cancer risks and symptoms, deserve recognition. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another indicator of quality. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and enhance the ability to track patient histories.

Several primary care practices within the 25314 ZIP code are likely to stand out based on their commitment to these factors. Identifying these standout practices requires a detailed review of patient reviews, physician credentials, and practice characteristics. This assessment should include a review of the services they offer, their approach to patient education, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and early detection.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to access virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources can significantly improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering convenient and accessible healthcare options, deserve special consideration. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly beneficial for patients who face transportation challenges or have mobility limitations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, but critical, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care setting or through referrals is a key factor. Practices that prioritize the mental health of their patients, offering integrated mental health services or readily available referrals, are providing comprehensive care.

Collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers are essential for effective breast cancer care. This includes seamless communication between primary care physicians, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists. Practices that actively participate in care coordination, such as sharing patient information electronically and facilitating referrals, contribute to improved patient outcomes.

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers or clinics within the broader Charleston area is another important consideration. These centers often offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together a team of specialists to provide comprehensive treatment and support. Proximity to these specialized resources can significantly impact the quality of care available to patients in the 25314 ZIP code.

Patient experience is a crucial factor. This includes assessing patient satisfaction with appointment scheduling, wait times, communication with healthcare providers, and the overall quality of care. Gathering patient feedback through surveys, reviews, and other means can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different practices.

The financial aspects of care, including insurance acceptance and the availability of financial assistance programs, are also important considerations. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and provide information about financial assistance options can improve access to care for all patients, regardless of their financial circumstances.

The analysis of breast cancer care within the 25314 ZIP code is complex and requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the quality of primary care practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources are all essential components. The presence of specialized breast cancer centers, the degree of care coordination, and the overall patient experience also play crucial roles.

Understanding the specific characteristics of each practice, including its strengths and weaknesses, provides a more complete picture of the care landscape. The goal is to identify areas where care is excellent, and areas where improvements are needed. This analysis provides a starting point for further investigation and can be used to inform decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources within the 25314 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including physician locations, patient demographics, and access to services, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize the complex factors affecting breast cancer care and identify areas where resources are most needed.