26203, Erbacon, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26203 has some form of health insurance. 97.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 9.28 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 26203 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26203. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 193 health care providers accessible to residents in 26203, Erbacon, West Virginia.

The analysis of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26203, encompassing the Erbacon area, requires a multifaceted approach. It’s crucial to assess not only the availability of physicians but also the broader healthcare infrastructure, including primary care access, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support – all critical factors influencing a patient's journey from diagnosis to survivorship. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for breast cancer patients in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a foundational element. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, specifically oncologists and surgeons, per capita within 26203 is the initial step. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards can provide this information. A low ratio of specialists, particularly oncologists, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes. The availability of surgeons specializing in breast cancer is equally important, as timely surgical intervention is often a critical component of treatment.

Primary care availability in Erbacon, a smaller community within 26203, directly impacts early detection. PCPs play a vital role in preventative care, including recommending mammograms and conducting breast exams. The proximity of primary care practices to residents is a key factor. Accessibility can be measured by drive times, public transportation options, and the presence of clinics in underserved areas. If primary care access is limited, women may be less likely to receive regular screenings, potentially leading to later-stage diagnoses.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining the quality of care provided by individual practices and hospitals within the ZIP code. Factors to consider include accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) for breast centers, patient satisfaction scores (if available), and the use of evidence-based treatment protocols. Hospitals with comprehensive breast cancer programs, offering a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, are generally considered to provide a higher level of care. Researching the specific affiliations of physicians within the area and their access to advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography and minimally invasive surgical techniques, will also be beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Erbacon. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups remotely. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services offered by local practices and hospitals is essential. This includes determining the types of telemedicine platforms used, the scope of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, particularly for those undergoing treatment or follow-up care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant emotional and psychological impacts. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is paramount. Assessing whether local practices and hospitals offer mental health support services, such as individual therapy, group counseling, or support groups, is also necessary. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and overall well-being.

The Erbacon area, like many rural communities, may face challenges related to healthcare access. These challenges could include limited transportation options, a shortage of healthcare professionals, and a lack of specialized services. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies. Initiatives to improve access could include establishing mobile mammography units, expanding telemedicine services, and recruiting healthcare professionals to the area.

Analyzing the data gathered from these various sources will allow for a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. The score should reflect the availability of physicians, primary care access, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This score can be used to compare the healthcare landscape in 26203 to other areas and to identify areas for improvement.

The assessment should also consider the specific needs of the Erbacon community. This could involve gathering feedback from patients and community members to understand their experiences and identify any unmet needs. This information can be used to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of breast cancer care in ZIP code 26203, with a focus on Erbacon, requires a detailed examination of various factors. The availability of physicians, primary care access, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are all critical components. By understanding these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to improve the lives of breast cancer patients in the Erbacon area.

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