26218, French Creek, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26218, French Creek, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.17 percent of the residents in 26218 has some form of health insurance. 40.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.74 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 26218 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 974 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26218. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 370 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,800 health care providers accessible to residents in 26218, French Creek, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: French Creek, WV (ZIP Code 26218)

Analyzing the availability and quality of breast cancer care within French Creek, West Virginia (ZIP code 26218), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," considers various factors impacting patient access to care, including physician density, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview, recognizing the limitations inherent in publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare provision.

**Physician Landscape and Primary Care Availability:**

The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26218 is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. Therefore, understanding the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly those focused on breast health, is essential. This analysis assumes that data is available to determine the number of PCPs per 1,000 residents in the ZIP code. A lower ratio necessitates a higher Breast Cancer Score, reflecting the potential difficulty patients may face in securing timely appointments and routine screenings.

The availability of primary care is the cornerstone of breast cancer detection and management. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, including breast cancer screenings like mammograms. The presence of a robust primary care network in French Creek is therefore crucial. We must also assess the proximity of these PCPs to the population, considering factors like transportation options and geographic barriers. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the accessibility of primary care, giving higher scores to areas with readily available PCPs.

**Specialized Services and Standout Practices:**

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized breast cancer services is paramount. This includes access to radiologists specializing in mammography and other breast imaging techniques, surgeons experienced in breast cancer treatment, and oncologists who provide chemotherapy and other cancer therapies. The presence of these specialists within the ZIP code, or in nearby communities within a reasonable travel distance, significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score.

Identifying any standout practices or healthcare facilities within or near 26218 is also vital. This could involve practices known for their commitment to breast cancer screening, early detection programs, or patient-centered care. These practices may have implemented innovative approaches to patient education, support, or treatment. Factors like accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR) for mammography services will be considered. The Breast Cancer Score will award higher marks to areas with practices demonstrating a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can mitigate the challenges of geographic isolation, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support remotely. The Breast Cancer Score will evaluate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by healthcare providers in 26218. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists.

The adoption of telemedicine can improve the Breast Cancer Score by increasing access to care, reducing travel burdens, and potentially lowering healthcare costs. The Score will give a higher rating to areas where telemedicine is integrated into the healthcare system, providing patients with convenient and accessible options for their care.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Breast Cancer Score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or women's health.

The Score will assess the availability of these resources within 26218 and nearby communities. It will also consider the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system, such as the availability of on-site counseling services at medical facilities. A higher Breast Cancer Score will be assigned to areas with robust mental health support systems, recognizing the importance of addressing the psychological needs of breast cancer patients.

**Overall Breast Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 26218 is ultimately a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all the factors discussed. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the current healthcare landscape.

The analysis will also consider factors such as the availability of patient navigation services, which can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. The Score will also consider the presence of educational programs and resources for breast cancer awareness and prevention.

The final Breast Cancer Score for French Creek, WV, will be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and provide a basis for improvement.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of French Creek and surrounding areas, including physician locations, service availability, and population demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the data, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care within 26218 and beyond.