26254, Bowden, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26254, Bowden, West Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.41 percent of the residents in 26254 has some form of health insurance. 36.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.06 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 26254 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26254. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 26254, Bowden, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bowden, WV (ZIP Code 26254)

Analyzing the availability of breast cancer care and related services within Bowden, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26254) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis goes beyond simply listing doctors; it delves into physician-to-patient ratios, evaluates the quality of primary care, assesses telemedicine adoption, and examines the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem. The aim is to provide a 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any breast cancer care pathway is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Bowden, the availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection and preventative care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a high number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is a critical factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Publicly available data, such as those from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the 26254 ZIP code. Any significant shortages would negatively impact the score. Furthermore, the quality of primary care, including the frequency of breast cancer screenings, patient education, and referral practices, must be assessed. This information can be gleaned from patient satisfaction surveys, physician reviews, and data on screening rates.

Standout practices in the area would significantly boost the Breast Cancer Score. Identifying practices that prioritize breast cancer screening, offer comprehensive patient education, and have strong referral networks to specialists is paramount. These practices often distinguish themselves through the use of advanced technologies, such as digital mammography and 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which can improve the accuracy of early detection. Moreover, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting breast cancer awareness and providing free or low-cost screenings, deserve recognition. The Breast Cancer Score would reflect the presence and impact of these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the Breast Cancer Score. In rural areas like Bowden, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to specialists and follow-up care. Practices that offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, post-operative care, or mental health support would receive a higher score. The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel time and associated costs for patients, making care more accessible and convenient. The ease of access to telemedicine platforms, the integration of these platforms into existing workflows, and the training provided to both physicians and patients are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is crucial. The Breast Cancer Score should reflect the accessibility of these resources, including the availability of support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric services. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, such as offering counseling sessions alongside chemotherapy or radiation therapy, is a sign of a truly comprehensive approach.

Specific examples of practices and their contributions would be essential to a thorough analysis. Identifying a practice that offers a dedicated breast cancer navigator, a professional who guides patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, would be a positive indicator. A practice that partners with local hospitals or cancer centers to provide multidisciplinary care, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, would also be highly valued. The Breast Cancer Score should reflect the presence of these collaborative efforts, which ensure patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Evaluating the availability of support services beyond medical care is equally important. This includes access to financial assistance programs, transportation services, and patient advocacy groups. These resources can alleviate some of the burdens associated with cancer treatment, allowing patients to focus on their health and recovery. The Breast Cancer Score would reflect the presence and accessibility of these supportive services, as they contribute to a holistic approach to care.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited health literacy can all create barriers to accessing breast cancer screening and treatment. The Breast Cancer Score should acknowledge these challenges and assess the efforts of local healthcare providers to address them. This might include offering sliding-scale fees, providing transportation assistance, or developing culturally sensitive educational materials.

The Breast Cancer Score for Bowden, WV (ZIP Code 26254) should be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and address the unique needs of their patients. Regular updates and reassessments are essential to ensure the score remains accurate and relevant. The score should serve as a tool for patients, providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and identifying areas for improvement.

Finally, the analysis should consider the long-term impact of breast cancer care on the community. This includes the availability of survivorship programs, which provide ongoing support to patients after treatment is completed. These programs often include follow-up medical care, rehabilitation services, and support groups. The Breast Cancer Score should reflect the presence and quality of these programs, as they are essential for promoting long-term health and well-being.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bowden, WV (ZIP Code 26254), and to identify potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed geographic representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of breast cancer care availability. **Visit CartoChrome to explore the possibilities and visualize the data.**