26209, Snowshoe, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26209, Snowshoe, West Virginia is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.21 percent of the residents in 26209 has some form of health insurance. 35.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.37 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 26209 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26209. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 44 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19 health care providers accessible to residents in 26209, Snowshoe, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26209 & Primary Care in Snowshoe

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care accessibility and support within ZIP code 26209, encompassing the Snowshoe area, focusing on key factors influencing patient outcomes. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial entry point for early detection and referral, alongside other relevant metrics, to formulate a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score." This score aims to provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately informing residents about their access to quality breast cancer care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. In the Snowshoe area, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. This analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, a metric that reflects the potential for timely access to care. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. We will seek to identify the approximate physician-to-patient ratio within 26209, comparing it to regional and national averages to understand its relative standing. Furthermore, we will investigate the types of primary care practices available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practitioners, as each may offer varying levels of expertise and resources related to breast health.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. We will explore the practices' commitment to preventative care, specifically breast cancer screenings. This includes evaluating the availability of mammography referrals, patient education materials, and the frequency with which physicians discuss breast cancer risk factors and screening guidelines with their patients. Practices actively promoting preventative care, adhering to established screening protocols, and providing comprehensive patient education will be viewed favorably in our assessment.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves recognizing healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. We will analyze factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records for streamlined communication and care coordination, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices actively participating in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning will be highlighted as exemplary. We will also examine the availability of specialized services, such as breast cancer support groups or access to genetic counseling, which can significantly enhance the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of modern healthcare. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Snowshoe, by providing virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists. We will assess the extent to which primary care practices in 26209 offer telemedicine services, including the types of services available (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering convenient and accessible virtual care options, will receive positive consideration.

Mental health resources play a significant role in the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, and access to mental health support is vital. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the community, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. We will assess whether primary care practices offer mental health referrals, and if they have established partnerships with mental health professionals specializing in oncology. The presence of readily accessible mental health resources will be considered a significant strength in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

The geographic challenges of a rural area like Snowshoe necessitate careful consideration of accessibility. This includes evaluating the proximity of primary care practices to residents, the availability of transportation options for patients, and the ease of access to specialized care, such as oncology and surgical services. We will examine the distance patients must travel for appointments, the availability of public transportation or patient transportation services, and the presence of any barriers to accessing care due to geographic constraints. Practices located in areas with high accessibility will be favored.

Further, we will examine the insurance landscape in 26209. This involves understanding the types of insurance accepted by local practices, the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, and the resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of healthcare billing and insurance coverage. Practices that are transparent about their billing practices, offer financial assistance options, and provide assistance with insurance navigation will be considered favorably.

The Breast Cancer Score for 26209 will be a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed above. It will be a qualitative assessment rather than a simple numerical score, taking into account the nuances of the healthcare landscape. The score will be based on the availability of primary care, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the geographic accessibility of services. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise overview of the breast cancer care environment in the Snowshoe area, empowering residents with the information they need to make informed healthcare decisions.

This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for residents of 26209, highlighting areas of strength and identifying opportunities for improvement in breast cancer care. By understanding the healthcare landscape, residents can actively participate in their own care and advocate for better services within their community. This information is intended to be a starting point for further exploration, encouraging residents to seek additional information from their healthcare providers and local health organizations.

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