25918, Shady Spring, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 25918, Shady Spring, West Virginia is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.46 percent of the residents in 25918 has some form of health insurance. 56.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.38 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 25918 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 923 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25918. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 374 health care providers accessible to residents in 25918, Shady Spring, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25918 and Primary Care in Shady Spring**

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 25918, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Shady Spring, West Virginia. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial to early detection, treatment, and overall well-being. The analysis will assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible and robust primary care. In Shady Spring, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of patient outcomes. A low physician-to-patient ratio can hinder timely screenings, diagnoses, and referrals, potentially leading to delayed treatment and poorer prognoses. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating greater accessibility, facilitates proactive care and improves the chances of early detection, which is paramount in breast cancer management. The existing data suggests that the ratio in this region may be a concern.

Examining the specific practices within the area is essential. Standout practices demonstrate excellence in several key areas. These include a commitment to preventative care, such as regular mammograms and clinical breast exams. They also foster strong patient-physician relationships, which are crucial for open communication and trust. Furthermore, these practices often integrate patient education programs, empowering individuals to understand their risks and participate actively in their care. The presence of certified navigators who can guide patients through the complex healthcare system is another hallmark of a high-quality practice. These navigators assist with appointments, insurance, and support services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Shady Spring and the surrounding areas can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for care. This is especially valuable for those living in geographically isolated areas or facing mobility challenges. The ability to access specialists remotely, such as oncologists and radiologists, can expedite diagnosis and treatment decisions. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers in ZIP code 25918 is vital to understanding the accessibility of care.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral networks are better equipped to support their patients’ overall well-being. The presence of these resources is a crucial indicator of the quality of breast cancer care in the region.

A thorough assessment of the primary care landscape in Shady Spring, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. Data collection on physician-to-patient ratios, practice profiles, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential. This data should be analyzed to identify areas of strength and weakness, providing a clear picture of the resources available to patients. Furthermore, it is important to consider factors such as insurance coverage, patient demographics, and socioeconomic status, as these can significantly influence access to care.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios must consider the specific demographics of ZIP code 25918. Factors such as the age distribution, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the percentage of the population with health insurance coverage will influence the demand for primary care services. A high physician-to-patient ratio might be acceptable in an area with a young and healthy population, but it could be problematic in a community with a higher proportion of elderly residents or individuals with underlying health conditions.

Identifying standout practices requires a detailed evaluation of their services and patient outcomes. This involves gathering information on the types of screenings offered, the use of evidence-based guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, preventative care, and timely referrals should be recognized for their excellence. This recognition can serve as a model for other practices and encourage improvements in the quality of care.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption should consider the types of services offered remotely, the technology infrastructure available, and the training provided to both physicians and patients. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow should be highlighted as examples of innovation. The barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as lack of internet access or technological literacy, should also be addressed.

The availability of mental health resources should be evaluated based on the number of mental health professionals in the area, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health providers or offer integrated mental health services should be recognized for their commitment to holistic care. The analysis should also consider the cultural sensitivity of the mental health services offered.

In conclusion, the quality of breast cancer care in ZIP code 25918, and specifically in Shady Spring, hinges on the strength of its primary care system. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles in determining patient outcomes. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating these factors, is essential to understanding the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper, visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 25918, including the distribution of physicians, access to resources, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest needs and opportunities for improvement.