26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 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 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" for primary care physicians within the 26104 ZIP code, encompassing Parkersburg, West Virginia, while also assessing the availability of primary care services in the area. This score will consider factors crucial to breast cancer prevention, early detection, and supportive care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and its ability to support patients navigating the complexities of breast cancer.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental metric for assessing healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to greater ease in scheduling appointments, more personalized care, and potentially, more time dedicated to preventative screenings like mammograms. In Parkersburg (26104), the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to determine the precise ratio. A low ratio, suggesting a potential shortage of primary care providers, could negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score. This scarcity might lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Identifying standout practices within the 26104 ZIP code is crucial. These practices often exhibit exemplary performance in breast cancer care. Factors to consider include the availability of on-site mammography services, the implementation of robust patient education programs focused on breast health awareness and self-examination techniques, and proactive outreach to patients regarding screening recommendations. Practices that consistently adhere to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and follow-up care, as recommended by organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, should be highlighted. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including access to breast cancer specialists, surgeons, and oncologists, would significantly enhance their Breast Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of virtual consultations for primary care, breast cancer screening follow-up, and mental health support can significantly impact patient outcomes. Practices that offer telemedicine services for these specific needs would receive a higher score. This includes evaluating the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine services into the practice's overall care model.

Mental health resources are an essential component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for providing support and managing the psychological challenges associated with the disease. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health providers, offer on-site counseling services, or provide referrals to mental health resources would receive a higher Breast Cancer Score. This includes evaluating the availability of support groups, educational materials on coping with cancer-related stress, and access to psychiatric services if needed.

Primary care availability in Parkersburg, beyond just the physician-to-patient ratio, encompasses several aspects. The geographic distribution of primary care practices within the 26104 ZIP code is important. Are practices evenly distributed, or are there underserved areas? The hours of operation of these practices, including evening and weekend availability, also play a role. Extended hours can improve access for working individuals. The acceptance of various insurance plans is another critical factor. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, ensure that care is accessible to a broader segment of the population.

The Breast Cancer Score should also consider the practice's commitment to patient education. Does the practice provide patients with educational materials on breast cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment options? Are there programs in place to promote healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation and weight management? Practices that actively engage in patient education and health promotion activities would receive a higher score. This includes evaluating the availability of educational brochures, online resources, and support groups.

The quality of communication between the physician and the patient is paramount. Practices that foster open communication, encourage patient questions, and provide clear and understandable explanations of medical information are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. The use of patient portals and other communication tools can also enhance the patient experience. Practices that prioritize effective communication would receive a higher score.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for primary care physicians in the 26104 ZIP code, encompassing Parkersburg, West Virginia, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, along with other factors. This analysis highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to breast cancer care, emphasizing the need for accessible, high-quality, and patient-centered services.

For a visual representation of these healthcare dynamics, including the geographic distribution of practices, physician-to-patient ratios, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide interactive maps that visualize the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Parkersburg and its ability to support patients navigating breast cancer.