25823, Coal City, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25823, Coal City, West Virginia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25823 has some form of health insurance. 92.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.90 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 25823 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 52 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25823. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 168 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,622 health care providers accessible to residents in 25823, Coal City, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 25823, encompassing Coal City, West Virginia, with a specific focus on primary care availability and related factors. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment, going beyond simple rankings to highlight specific strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon accessible and high-quality primary care. In Coal City, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less preventative care, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for patients. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 25823 is essential. Publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), or state-level data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, can provide this information. A low ratio, ideally below the national average, suggests better access to primary care and, by extension, better potential for early detection and management of breast cancer.

Beyond physician numbers, the characteristics of available primary care practices are also important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive services, including routine screenings like mammograms or referrals to specialized care? Practices that are integrated within larger healthcare systems may offer advantages in terms of coordination of care and access to specialists. The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can also enhance access to care, particularly in areas with physician shortages. Their ability to provide primary care services can help alleviate the burden on PCPs and increase patient access.

Standout practices within 25823 would be those that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient-centered service. These practices would proactively schedule mammograms for eligible patients, educate patients about breast cancer risk factors, and offer support services. They would likely have established referral pathways to radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication, improve care coordination, and allow for the tracking of patient outcomes. Practices with robust EHR systems are better positioned to manage complex cases and ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

Telemedicine adoption is another area of critical importance. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Coal City. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve patient convenience and access. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients, including access to specialists, is a positive indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for patients undergoing breast cancer treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within primary care practices or through referral networks is a significant factor. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are better equipped to provide holistic care. The integration of mental health services into the care continuum is a key indicator of a well-rounded approach to patient care.

Specific practices in 25823 would be evaluated based on these factors. Identifying practices that excel in preventative care, offer telehealth options, and have strong referral networks for specialized breast cancer care is crucial. The availability of support services, including mental health resources, would also be a key consideration. The practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive support would receive higher scores.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for the healthcare environment in 25823 would be a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a foundational element. The availability of comprehensive primary care services, including preventative screenings and referrals, would be another key component. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources would also contribute to the score. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the community.

The analysis also considers the potential impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly affect a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. Practices that address these factors, for example, by offering transportation assistance or providing culturally sensitive education materials, would be viewed more favorably.

The ‘Breast Cancer Score’ is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a detailed assessment of the healthcare environment, designed to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It highlights areas of strength and identifies areas where improvements are needed. The goal is to improve access to high-quality breast cancer care and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

Finally, understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is crucial. Visualizing this data can provide valuable insights. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25823, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other healthcare resources, providing a clear picture of access and availability. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze healthcare data in Coal City and beyond.