26236, Selbyville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26236 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26236. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,643 health care providers accessible to residents in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Selbyville (ZIP Code 26236)**

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare services within Selbyville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26236), focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the community's preparedness for breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Access to a primary care physician (PCP) is crucial for early detection through regular screenings, patient education, and referrals to specialists. In Selbyville, evaluating primary care availability begins with assessing the number of PCPs serving the population. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential access limitations, leading to delayed appointments and potentially impacting the timely detection of breast cancer. Data on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, combined with population demographics, is essential to calculate this ratio accurately.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, including mammogram referrals and patient education regarding breast cancer risk factors and self-examination techniques. Practices that actively promote these services and offer comprehensive screening programs receive higher marks. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns is also a key indicator of accessibility and responsiveness.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operations and patient outcomes. This involves researching practices that have demonstrated a commitment to breast cancer care through specific initiatives. For example, practices that participate in national quality improvement programs or have a dedicated breast cancer screening coordinator would be considered highly desirable. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including the physician's communication skills, empathy, and the overall quality of care provided.

The adoption of telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. In Selbyville, the extent to which primary care practices and specialists utilize telemedicine for breast cancer-related consultations is a significant factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in virtual support groups. Practices that offer telemedicine options for consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions will be rated favorably. This is especially important for patients who may have difficulty traveling to larger medical centers for specialized care.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology-related issues. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, receive higher marks. The ability to address the psychological impact of breast cancer is critical for patient well-being and treatment adherence.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for Selbyville would be determined by combining these factors. Each area – physician-to-patient ratio, primary care quality, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weighted score based on its importance. The overall score would reflect the community's preparedness for breast cancer care. A higher score would indicate better access to care, higher quality services, and a more supportive environment for patients. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as increasing the number of physicians, enhancing preventative care programs, expanding telemedicine options, and improving access to mental health services.

In addition to the factors already discussed, consideration must be given to the presence of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, who are essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral from primary care physicians are vital components of the overall score. The availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography, also impacts the quality of care.

Furthermore, the analysis should incorporate information on the affordability of care, including insurance coverage and the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial barriers can significantly impact a patient's ability to access necessary care. Practices that offer financial counseling or partner with organizations that provide financial assistance would be viewed more favorably.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape in Selbyville. It would provide a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers striving to improve their services, and community stakeholders working to enhance breast cancer awareness and support. Regular updates to the score, based on ongoing data collection and analysis, would ensure its continued relevance and accuracy.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Selbyville, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a clear and concise overview of the community's breast cancer care resources, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare.