26181, Washington, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26181, Washington, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 26181 has some form of health insurance. 47.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.62 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 26181 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,435 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26181. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,859 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 412 health care providers accessible to residents in 26181, Washington, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Washington County, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26181) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26181 (Washington County, West Virginia) and examines the broader context of primary care availability in Washington County. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the resources available to patients, focusing on factors that contribute to early detection, effective treatment, and overall well-being. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, crucial components of a holistic approach to breast cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Washington County presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of healthcare professionals, and this can directly impact access to timely screenings, consultations, and treatment. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, it can place an increased burden on existing providers, potentially impacting the quality of care they can deliver. While specific data on the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26181 is difficult to obtain with granular precision, the general trend in rural West Virginia suggests a need for improvement.

Within Washington County, identifying standout practices is crucial. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care. This involves not only providing high-quality medical services but also offering patient-centered care, including emotional support, educational resources, and coordination of care. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promote early detection through regular screenings, and utilize advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies are particularly noteworthy. Researching local hospitals and clinics, and reviewing patient feedback, are essential steps in identifying these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where geographic barriers can be significant. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and offer mental health support. The extent to which practices in ZIP code 26181 have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient access and convenience. Examining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals is crucial.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is vital for patients' overall well-being. The availability of these resources within Washington County, and specifically within the network of providers serving ZIP code 26181, is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Identifying practices that offer integrated mental health services or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals is essential.

Primary care availability is inextricably linked to breast cancer outcomes. Primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection, screening, and referral. They are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. A robust primary care infrastructure is essential for ensuring that patients have access to timely screenings, such as mammograms, and can receive prompt referrals to specialists when needed. The accessibility of primary care physicians within Washington County, including their acceptance of new patients and the availability of appointments, directly impacts the timeliness of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The integration of various healthcare services is crucial for optimal patient outcomes. This involves seamless communication and collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, radiologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information efficiently and that have established care coordination protocols are better equipped to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care. Assessing the level of integration among healthcare providers in Washington County is a key factor in evaluating the overall quality of breast cancer care.

Patient education and empowerment are also vital. Patients who are well-informed about breast cancer, its risk factors, and available treatment options are better equipped to make informed decisions about their care. Healthcare providers should offer educational resources, such as brochures, online materials, and support groups, to empower patients to take an active role in their health. Assessing the availability and quality of patient education materials within Washington County is an important aspect of the overall analysis.

The role of community organizations and support groups should not be overlooked. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society and local support groups provide invaluable resources to breast cancer patients, including emotional support, financial assistance, and access to educational programs. The presence of these organizations within Washington County and their collaboration with healthcare providers can significantly enhance the support system available to patients. Identifying and assessing the activities of these organizations is an essential component of the analysis.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Obtaining specific data on all the factors discussed, particularly within a single ZIP code, can be challenging. Data privacy regulations and the proprietary nature of some healthcare information can restrict access to certain data points. However, by utilizing publicly available information, conducting thorough research, and consulting with local healthcare professionals, a comprehensive understanding of the breast cancer care landscape in Washington County can be achieved. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation and can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for increased resources and support for breast cancer patients.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Washington County and to explore the distribution of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and the geographic disparities in access to care.