26137, Big Springs, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26137, Big Springs, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.15 percent of the residents in 26137 has some form of health insurance. 48.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.56 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 26137 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26137. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 176 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 26137, Big Springs, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26137, focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and access to supportive resources. We will also examine primary care availability in Big Springs, West Virginia, as it serves as a critical foundation for early detection and ongoing support for individuals at risk or diagnosed with breast cancer. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. In 26137, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly oncologists and surgeons, directly impacts the speed and efficiency of diagnosis and treatment. Low physician-to-patient ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from reputable sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the American Medical Association should be consulted to ascertain the current physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This data will provide a baseline understanding of the existing resource pool.

Primary care physicians play a pivotal role in breast cancer detection. They are often the first point of contact for patients and are responsible for conducting initial screenings, such as breast exams, and referring patients for mammograms. The availability of PCPs in Big Springs, a community within the larger service area of 26137, is therefore critical. A robust primary care network ensures that women have timely access to preventative care and can receive prompt referrals to specialists if necessary. The analysis will delve into the number of PCPs practicing in Big Springs, their acceptance of new patients, and the types of insurance they accept.

Identifying standout practices within the 26137 area requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment, and the availability of advanced technologies such as 3D mammography. Practices that consistently demonstrate high-quality care, as evidenced by accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology, should be highlighted. Furthermore, the analysis will examine the range of services offered, including genetic counseling, surgical options, and access to clinical trials.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like 26137. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The analysis will assess the extent to which local healthcare providers offer telemedicine services for breast cancer care, including the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the platforms used. The accessibility of these services, including the availability of reliable internet access, will also be considered.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the 26137 area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is also crucial, ensuring that patients receive holistic support throughout their journey.

The availability of support groups and patient education programs is another key factor. These resources provide patients with valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community. The analysis will identify local support groups, their meeting schedules, and the types of educational materials available. It will also assess the accessibility of these resources, including whether they are offered in multiple languages or tailored to the needs of specific patient populations.

Access to financial assistance programs can significantly impact a patient's ability to afford breast cancer treatment. The analysis will explore the availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or local charities, that can help patients cover the costs of treatment, medications, and other related expenses. Information on eligibility criteria and how to apply for these programs will be included.

The analysis will also consider the proximity of patients to comprehensive cancer centers. If specialized care is not readily available within 26137, the distance to the nearest cancer centers, such as those in Charleston or Morgantown, will be assessed. The availability of transportation options for patients needing to travel for treatment is also a critical consideration.

Finally, the analysis will address the role of community outreach and education programs. These programs can raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, and provide valuable information to the community. The analysis will identify any existing outreach programs in the 26137 area and assess their effectiveness in reaching the target population.

In conclusion, the assessment of breast cancer care in 26137 and primary care availability in Big Springs reveals a complex landscape. While the availability of resources may be limited in a rural area, the quality of care can be improved through the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the development of robust support networks.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of support services, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for a visual representation of the data, enabling a more comprehensive and insightful analysis of the healthcare landscape in the 26137 ZIP code and surrounding areas. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and understand the critical elements of breast cancer care in your community.