26149, Middlebourne, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26149, Middlebourne, West Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.49 percent of the residents in 26149 has some form of health insurance. 46.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.47 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 26149 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 502 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26149. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 501 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 345 health care providers accessible to residents in 26149, Middlebourne, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 26149, focusing on Middlebourne, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. This evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview for individuals seeking information about healthcare access in this specific geographic region.

Middlebourne, a small community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access common to rural areas. One of the most significant hurdles is the physician-to-patient ratio. Due to the limited population base, the number of primary care physicians and specialists, including those specializing in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is likely to be significantly lower than in more urban settings. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potentially, a reduced availability of specialized expertise.

The availability of primary care physicians serves as a critical foundation for breast cancer detection and management. Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and early detection of potential issues. A shortage of primary care physicians can, therefore, lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer outcomes for breast cancer patients. The analysis will consider the number of primary care providers actively practicing within the specified ZIP Code and the surrounding counties.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, and the range of services offered. While a comprehensive review of individual practice performance is beyond the scope of this analysis, the presence of accreditation from reputable organizations and positive patient reviews can serve as indicators of quality. The analysis will also examine the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as mammography and ultrasound, which can significantly improve the efficiency and convenience of breast cancer screening.

Telemedicine adoption presents a potential solution to some of the challenges of rural healthcare access. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. The analysis will assess the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. The availability of telemedicine services can be particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients, allowing them to receive timely advice and support without the burden of extensive travel.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the community. The presence of integrated mental health services within primary care practices or cancer centers can be particularly beneficial, providing patients with convenient access to the support they need.

Examining the specific practices within ZIP Code 26149, it is likely that the options are limited. The presence of larger healthcare systems with outreach clinics in the area may provide some access to specialists and advanced services. However, the reliance on these larger systems often necessitates travel outside of Middlebourne. The analysis will investigate the affiliations of local practices and the extent to which they are connected to larger networks that offer specialized breast cancer care.

The analysis will consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers, who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing resources. Patient navigators play a vital role in coordinating care, providing emotional support, and connecting patients with financial assistance programs. The presence of these support services can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the availability of educational resources for patients. Access to accurate and up-to-date information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support services is essential for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. The presence of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, will be evaluated.

The unique challenges of providing healthcare in a rural setting, such as Middlebourne, require innovative solutions. The analysis will consider the potential for community-based initiatives, such as mobile mammography units or outreach programs, to improve access to breast cancer screening and care. These initiatives can help to overcome the barriers of distance and limited resources.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 26149, encompassing Middlebourne, West Virginia, presents both challenges and opportunities. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the need for travel to access specialized care, and the importance of mental health resources all contribute to the complexities of the situation. The evaluation of practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and community-based initiatives will help to paint a comprehensive picture of the available resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the factors influencing access to care in this area, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for a visual exploration of healthcare data, providing insights into physician locations, service availability, and other relevant factors.