25444, Slanesville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25444, Slanesville, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25444 has some form of health insurance. 30.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.94 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 25444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 157 health care providers accessible to residents in 25444, Slanesville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Slanesville, WV (ZIP Code 25444)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care access within ZIP code 25444, encompassing Slanesville, West Virginia. It focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their capacity to provide breast cancer screening and initial management, and the overall resources available to patients in this rural area. This assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, considering various factors crucial for timely detection and effective treatment.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care pathway lies in robust primary care. In Slanesville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly hinder access to routine checkups, preventative screenings, and timely referrals. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of this area likely presents a challenge. Patients might face longer wait times for appointments and potentially have to travel further to access primary care services. This geographical constraint directly impacts the early detection of breast cancer, a critical factor in successful treatment outcomes.

Within the primary care setting, the availability of breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms, is paramount. While primary care physicians typically don't conduct mammograms themselves, their role in ordering and coordinating these screenings is essential. The analysis must consider how readily accessible mammography services are in the vicinity. Are there local imaging centers? What is the average wait time for a mammogram appointment? Does the primary care practice actively remind patients about their screening schedules? These are all elements that influence the "Breast Cancer Score."

Beyond screening, the primary care physician's ability to provide initial breast cancer management is also vital. This includes educating patients about risk factors, performing clinical breast exams, and providing guidance on self-examination techniques. The level of training and experience of the primary care physicians in breast health will significantly impact the quality of care. Ideally, physicians should be up-to-date on current breast cancer screening guidelines and be comfortable discussing treatment options with patients.

Identifying "standout practices" is crucial. These are primary care practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This could include practices that actively participate in breast cancer awareness campaigns, have dedicated staff members focused on patient education, or have established strong referral networks with oncologists and surgeons. Identifying these practices can help patients navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

Telemedicine adoption presents a potential solution to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care. In a rural area like Slanesville, telemedicine can connect patients with specialists, provide virtual consultations, and facilitate remote monitoring. The analysis must assess the extent to which primary care practices in the area utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related services. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can take a significant toll on a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services in the area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Are there readily available resources to address anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that patients may face? The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan significantly improves the patient experience and treatment outcomes.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but a composite evaluation based on all these factors. It reflects the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care within the specified ZIP code. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of screening services, the level of primary care physician training, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

In Slanesville, the "Breast Cancer Score" likely faces challenges due to the rural setting. The limited number of physicians, the potential for longer travel times, and the need for robust telemedicine infrastructure are all factors to consider. This highlights the importance of proactive measures to improve access to care. This could involve attracting more healthcare professionals to the area, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing awareness of breast cancer screening guidelines.

The analysis also considers the potential for collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and community organizations. Building a strong network of care providers is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. This includes establishing clear referral pathways, sharing patient information effectively, and fostering a culture of collaboration.

The "Breast Cancer Score" analysis ultimately aims to provide a clear picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Slanesville. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing the quality and accessibility of care. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Slanesville have access to the resources they need to detect and effectively treat breast cancer.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Slanesville, including the location of primary care practices, imaging centers, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and understand the accessibility of breast cancer care services in your community.