26133, Belleville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.21 percent of the residents in 26133 has some form of health insurance. 36.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.72 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 26133 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26133. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 255 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Belleville, WV (ZIP Code 26133)

This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 26133 (Belleville, West Virginia), focusing on factors crucial for early detection, comprehensive care, and patient support. This score is not a numerical rating but a qualitative evaluation, considering various aspects of healthcare access and quality. The analysis emphasizes the importance of these factors in improving breast cancer outcomes.

Belleville, a relatively rural community, faces unique healthcare challenges. Geographic isolation, limited resources, and an aging population can impact access to timely screenings, specialist consultations, and supportive services. This analysis will examine the current landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of breast cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

The availability of primary care physicians is a foundational element of effective breast cancer care. A high physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and difficulty in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. In Belleville, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a crucial factor. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to determine the exact ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio suggests a potential bottleneck for accessing preventative care, including mammograms and clinical breast exams.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the distribution of PCPs within the area. Are practices concentrated in specific locations, potentially creating access barriers for residents in more remote areas? Are there any federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community health clinics that can offer affordable care to underserved populations? Identifying these factors is critical to assessing the overall primary care landscape.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their approach to breast cancer care. This includes assessing their commitment to preventative screenings, their use of evidence-based guidelines, and their coordination with specialists. Practices that actively promote mammography screening, provide patient education materials, and offer convenient appointment scheduling are likely to perform better.

Researching the practices within the area is crucial. Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient screenings and follow-up appointments? Do they have dedicated staff members who focus on breast cancer care coordination? Practices that proactively manage patient care, ensuring timely referrals to specialists and providing ongoing support, should be recognized for their commitment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for enhancing access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Belleville is an important factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with specialists, receive counseling, and access educational resources remotely.

Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining whether PCPs offer virtual appointments, use remote monitoring technologies, or provide online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers and improve patient convenience. This is especially relevant for follow-up appointments, discussing test results, and providing emotional support.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care.

The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health services? Are there support groups or counseling programs specifically designed for breast cancer patients? Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to supportive services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

**Specific Considerations for Belleville:**

Belleville's rural setting presents unique challenges. Transportation limitations, limited access to specialized medical centers, and potential financial constraints can affect patients' ability to receive timely care. The analysis must consider these factors and identify strategies to mitigate these barriers.

This may involve exploring partnerships with local transportation services, offering financial assistance programs, or advocating for increased access to mobile mammography units. The analysis should also consider the demographics of the community, including age, socioeconomic status, and cultural factors, to tailor healthcare interventions effectively.

**Conclusion:**

The "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for Belleville, WV (ZIP code 26133) underscores the importance of accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources are all crucial steps. Addressing the specific challenges of a rural community like Belleville requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes promoting early detection through screening programs, ensuring access to specialist consultations, and providing emotional and practical support to patients.

**Call to Action:**

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