26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 26101 has some form of health insurance. 54.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.58 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 26101 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,516 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26101. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,860 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,006 health care providers accessible to residents in 26101, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26101)**

Parkersburg, West Virginia, located within ZIP code 26101, presents a unique landscape for breast cancer care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. This is all in an effort to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for the region.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on the availability of accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for early detection through screening and referrals. In Parkersburg, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering factors like insurance acceptance, appointment wait times, and patient satisfaction. A limited number of PCPs, long wait times, or a lack of insurance acceptance can hinder access to timely care, negatively impacting the "Breast Cancer Score."

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain the healthcare system, leading to increased patient loads and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. This can affect the thoroughness of examinations, the ability to address patient concerns adequately, and the timeliness of referrals to specialists. Conversely, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio facilitates better patient care, improving the overall "Breast Cancer Score." Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and local healthcare networks will be essential in determining this ratio.

Identifying standout practices within Parkersburg is crucial. These practices may excel in specific areas, such as early detection programs, patient education initiatives, or a multidisciplinary approach to care. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer convenient screening options (e.g., mammography), and provide comprehensive support services (e.g., patient navigators) would be considered high-performing. The "Breast Cancer Score" benefits from the presence of such exemplary practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Parkersburg for breast cancer care can significantly enhance access to specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve the "Breast Cancer Score" by expanding access to care, reducing travel burdens for patients, and improving the overall patient experience.

Mental health support is an integral component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health professionals is crucial for patients. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within Parkersburg is a significant factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Parkersburg (ZIP code 26101) will be influenced by these factors. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed analysis of the available data, including the number of PCPs, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the region.

The landscape of breast cancer care in Parkersburg is dynamic. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static measure; it evolves with changes in healthcare infrastructure, technological advancements, and community initiatives. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the community receives the best possible care.

Data collection is paramount to this analysis. Information must be sourced from various avenues, including healthcare provider directories, insurance databases, patient surveys, and local health organizations. The accuracy and completeness of the data will directly impact the validity of the "Breast Cancer Score."

This analysis considers the specific needs of the Parkersburg community. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural sensitivity are considered. A one-size-fits-all approach is not appropriate; the assessment must be tailored to the unique characteristics of the population.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is intended to be a tool for improvement. It can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify areas of strength and weakness in breast cancer care. The goal is to foster continuous improvement and ensure that all residents of Parkersburg have access to high-quality, comprehensive breast cancer care.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted contribution of the various factors discussed. The weighting of each factor will be determined based on its relative importance in influencing patient outcomes and access to care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a readily understandable overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Parkersburg.

The analysis will also consider the potential impact of any ongoing or planned healthcare initiatives in the region. For example, the opening of a new cancer center, the implementation of a community-wide screening program, or the expansion of telemedicine services could significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score."

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to fighting breast cancer. It is a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to work together to improve the lives of those affected by this disease.

The assessment also considers the availability of specialized services, such as breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are critical for providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

The analysis also looks at the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, genetic counselors, and physical therapists specializing in lymphedema. These services can play a crucial role in supporting patients throughout their cancer journey.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is designed to be transparent and replicable. The methodology used to calculate the score will be clearly documented, allowing for future updates and comparisons.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower patients, providers, and the community to make informed decisions about breast cancer care in Parkersburg. By providing a comprehensive and objective assessment of the current landscape, this analysis can contribute to improved outcomes and a better quality of life for those affected by breast cancer.

Interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Parkersburg and beyond? **Explore CartoChrome maps to see the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of access to care.**