26241, Elkins, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26241, Elkins, West Virginia is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 26241 has some form of health insurance. 50.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.46 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 26241 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,599 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26241. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,183 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 517 health care providers accessible to residents in 26241, Elkins, West Virginia.

Breast cancer care access and quality are multifaceted, influenced by factors ranging from physician availability to the integration of mental health support. Analyzing these elements within a specific geographical area, like ZIP Code 26241 (Elkins, West Virginia), provides a valuable snapshot for patients and healthcare providers alike. This analysis will examine the landscape of breast cancer care, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources in Elkins, West Virginia.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. In Elkins, a rural area, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, including oncologists and surgeons, is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the American Medical Association can provide insights into the current physician-to-patient ratio in the area. This data should be compared to state and national averages to assess the relative accessibility of care.

Standout practices in Elkins, if any, can be identified through several avenues. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, coupled with recommendations from local community organizations, can highlight practices known for their patient-centered approach, expertise in breast cancer treatment, and commitment to innovation. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer advanced diagnostic tools like 3D mammography, and employ multidisciplinary teams (including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses) often stand out. Furthermore, the presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering comprehensive services under one roof, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in Elkins can significantly improve access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients. Examining which practices offer telehealth options, the types of services provided remotely (e.g., consultations, medication management), and the technology used (e.g., secure video conferencing platforms) is crucial. Telemedicine’s impact on reducing travel time, improving patient convenience, and facilitating access to specialists located outside of Elkins should be assessed.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be significant. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Elkins is critical. This includes identifying whether practices have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams, whether they offer referrals to therapists and counselors specializing in cancer care, and whether support groups are available locally. The presence of resources like support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care directly impacts the well-being of patients.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of preventative care and early detection. The accessibility of PCPs in Elkins directly influences the likelihood of women receiving regular screenings, such as mammograms, which are crucial for early detection of breast cancer. Evaluating the number of PCPs in the area, their acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments provides a picture of access. Furthermore, the integration of PCPs into breast cancer care, such as their role in educating patients about risk factors, recommending screenings, and coordinating care with specialists, should be examined.

Specific practices in Elkins that may be considered “standouts” based on patient reviews, services offered, and integration of technology include Davis Medical Center. Davis Medical Center is a major healthcare provider in the region and likely offers a range of services related to breast cancer care. However, specific details regarding their physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources require detailed investigation.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires a closer look at individual practices. Do any of them offer virtual consultations with oncologists or surgeons? Do they use remote monitoring devices for patients undergoing treatment? Are there any telehealth programs specifically designed for breast cancer patients? The answers to these questions will determine the level of telemedicine integration.

Mental health resources in Elkins are crucial. Are there any local therapists or counselors specializing in cancer-related issues? Does Davis Medical Center or other providers offer mental health services or referrals? Are there any support groups for breast cancer patients in the area? The availability of these resources can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The quality of breast cancer care in Elkins is a complex issue. It is influenced by factors such as physician availability, practice innovations, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding these factors, a more comprehensive assessment requires gathering data from various sources, including healthcare providers, patient surveys, and public health agencies. This analysis is a starting point.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape of Elkins and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, offering a powerful tool for patients and healthcare providers alike. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care environment in Elkins and surrounding areas.