25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.76 percent of the residents in 25443 has some form of health insurance. 28.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.24 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 25443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,617 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,237 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Shepherdstown, West Virginia (ZIP code 25443), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, the backbone of early detection and ongoing support. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system.

Shepherdstown, a charming town nestled along the Potomac River, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its relatively small population, combined with its proximity to larger urban centers, creates a dynamic interplay of local resources and regional access. Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" requires a nuanced understanding of these factors.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Shepherdstown, and Jefferson County more broadly, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical consideration. Lower ratios, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, higher ratios suggest greater accessibility. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, alongside national databases, would be used to determine the specific physician-to-patient ratio within the 25443 ZIP code. This data, however, may need to be interpreted carefully. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, impacting these ratios negatively.

Identifying standout primary care practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including routine mammograms and breast cancer screenings. Practices that actively participate in patient education, offer personalized risk assessments, and provide comprehensive follow-up care deserve recognition. This assessment considers factors like: the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient health, the availability of same-day appointments for urgent concerns, and the presence of certified nurse practitioners or physician assistants who can provide additional support. Reviews from patients, and data from healthcare quality organizations, would be used to identify these practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can improve access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and offer support groups or counseling services. The "Breast Cancer Score" would assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by primary care practices in Shepherdstown. This includes evaluating whether virtual consultations are offered, if patients can access their medical records online, and if practices utilize secure communication platforms for patient-doctor interactions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are an integral part of breast cancer care. A diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and ongoing treatment can bring significant stress and anxiety. The "Breast Cancer Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health services within the primary care network and the broader community. This includes assessing whether primary care physicians screen for mental health concerns, if they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, and if support groups or counseling services are readily accessible.

Furthermore, the "Breast Cancer Score" takes into account the availability of support services, such as patient navigators. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and ensuring patients receive the care they need. The presence of these navigators within primary care practices or affiliated cancer centers significantly enhances the overall quality of care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical ranking; it is a comprehensive evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem. It considers the physical resources, the availability of specialized care, and the integration of mental health support. It acknowledges the importance of patient education, preventative care, and ongoing support.

The methodology used to calculate the "Breast Cancer Score" would involve gathering data from various sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and publicly available physician directories. Patient reviews and ratings from reputable sources would be incorporated. The collected data would be analyzed to assess the key performance indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. The practices would be ranked based on their performance across these indicators.

The limitations of this analysis are also important to acknowledge. The data available may not always be complete or up-to-date. The analysis relies on publicly available information and may not fully capture the nuances of each practice. Patient experiences, which are subjective, are considered.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 25443 and primary care availability in Shepherdstown involves a multi-faceted assessment. It requires a deep understanding of the local healthcare landscape, the availability of resources, and the quality of care provided. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of breast cancer care in Shepherdstown, highlighting strengths and weaknesses and identifying areas for improvement.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Shepherdstown and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment. Explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome.