26160, Palestine, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26160, Palestine, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.66 percent of the residents in 26160 has some form of health insurance. 49.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.73 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 26160 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26160. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 167 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 197 health care providers accessible to residents in 26160, Palestine, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Palestine, WV (ZIP Code 26160)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26160, Palestine, West Virginia, focusing on primary care availability and its impact on early detection and treatment. The goal is to assess the landscape, identify strengths and weaknesses, and offer insights for improvement. This analysis is not intended to provide medical advice.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on accessible primary care. In Palestine, WV, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly hinder early detection efforts. This ratio is a key metric in our 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis. We must consider the population of 26160 and the number of practicing PCPs within a reasonable geographic radius. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) suggests potential challenges in timely appointments for preventative screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates greater accessibility. This ratio directly impacts the ability of women to receive regular checkups and discuss their breast health concerns.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We need to assess the practices within 26160 and the surrounding areas. Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools? Do they adhere to established breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons? The presence of these elements significantly boosts the score. Practices that actively promote breast health awareness, offer educational materials, and provide personalized risk assessments deserve higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect. In a rural area like Palestine, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to specialists and consultations. Practices utilizing telehealth for follow-up appointments, providing remote consultations, or offering educational sessions on breast health will receive a higher score. Telemedicine's ability to connect patients with specialists, even when in-person visits are difficult, is a significant advantage. The ease of access it provides can lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are vital. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally taxing. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care model will be highly rated. This includes providing access to counselors, support groups, or psychiatrists. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the patient's overall well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of their diagnosis and treatment.

Standout practices within 26160 deserve recognition. These are the clinics and individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. Practices that proactively reach out to patients for screenings, offer comprehensive care plans, and prioritize patient education will be identified. Their dedication to patient well-being serves as a model for others. Identifying these practices allows us to highlight best practices and encourage their replication.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a single number. It is a composite of various factors. We evaluate the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score reflects the overall accessibility and quality of breast cancer care within the community. A higher score indicates a more supportive environment for women facing this disease.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialized care. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists is crucial. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral from primary care physicians significantly impact the score. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department or a close proximity to a comprehensive cancer center is a major positive factor.

Furthermore, we examine the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured are critical. Practices that actively assist patients in navigating the complexities of insurance and accessing financial resources will receive a higher score. This ensures that financial barriers do not prevent women from receiving the care they need.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the population. The age distribution of women in 26160, their socioeconomic status, and their access to transportation are all factors that influence the score. The analysis acknowledges that different populations have unique needs and that care should be tailored to meet those needs.

The analysis is an ongoing process. As healthcare practices evolve and new technologies emerge, the Breast Cancer Score will be updated to reflect these changes. The goal is to provide a dynamic and relevant assessment of breast cancer care in Palestine, WV. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the analysis remains a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders.

The Breast Cancer Score analysis is intended to be a tool for improvement. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, we can work together to enhance the quality of breast cancer care in Palestine, WV. This includes advocating for increased access to primary care, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and ensuring that mental health resources are readily available.

We are committed to transparency. The methodology used to calculate the Breast Cancer Score is based on publicly available data and best practices in healthcare assessment. We are open to feedback and suggestions for improvement. Our goal is to create a reliable and informative resource that empowers women in Palestine, WV, to take control of their breast health.

Finally, to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26160 and beyond, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis.

**Visualize the healthcare landscape and uncover critical insights using CartoChrome maps. Explore physician locations, primary care availability, and other vital data points to gain a comprehensive view of healthcare access in your community.**