26267, Ellamore, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 26267 has some form of health insurance. 29.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.62 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 26267 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 368 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26267. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 26 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 554 health care providers accessible to residents in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26267 & Primary Care Availability in Ellamore**

Analyzing the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26267, encompassing the Ellamore area, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, the quality of primary care, access to crucial support services, and the integration of modern technologies. The goal is to create a 'Breast Cancer Score,' reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing this disease. This score is not a single number but a composite assessment of various factors.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Ellamore, a critical assessment involves evaluating the PCP-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as individuals may struggle to secure timely appointments for initial screenings and referrals. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more accessible system, potentially allowing for quicker access to diagnostic testing and specialist consultations. This is a crucial component of the Breast Cancer Score.

Primary care practices in Ellamore need to be assessed for their proactive approach to breast cancer screening. Do they routinely remind patients of their screening schedules? Do they offer educational materials about breast cancer risk factors and early detection methods? The practices that prioritize these elements will receive higher scores. The inclusion of patient education, particularly on self-examination techniques, is another critical factor.

Beyond the availability of PCPs, the presence of specialists is vital. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the availability of oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons within a reasonable distance of Ellamore. A lack of these specialists forces patients to travel further for treatment, adding stress and potentially delaying care. Assessing the proximity to specialized cancer centers and the ease of referral pathways is a significant factor in the score.

Another critical aspect is the integration of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, will receive a higher score. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens and improve patient convenience, contributing to a more patient-centered care model.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the overall well-being of breast cancer patients. The Breast Cancer Score must account for the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, is also crucial. These resources help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The quality of diagnostic imaging services is a key element. The Breast Cancer Score must assess the availability of high-quality mammography services, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), which is often more effective in detecting early-stage cancers. The accreditation of imaging centers and the experience of the radiologists interpreting the scans are also important factors. Practices that offer state-of-the-art imaging technologies and experienced radiologists will receive higher scores.

The Breast Cancer Score must also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, provide clear and concise information, and actively solicit patient feedback will receive higher scores.

Evaluating standout practices within the 26267 ZIP code requires identifying those that demonstrate excellence in multiple areas. These practices may have a strong PCP-to-patient ratio, a commitment to early detection through proactive screening, a readily accessible network of specialists, and a robust integration of telemedicine. They may also prioritize mental health resources and offer a positive patient experience. Identifying these practices and highlighting their strengths is a key component of the analysis.

Furthermore, the analysis must address the availability of financial assistance and support services. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and patients may need help navigating insurance coverage, accessing financial aid programs, and managing the costs of treatment. Practices that offer assistance with these issues will receive higher scores.

The Ellamore area's Breast Cancer Score is not static. It's a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the evolving needs of patients. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the score remains a reliable indicator of the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 26267 and primary care availability in Ellamore is a composite assessment that considers a multitude of factors. It's a tool for evaluating the current state of breast cancer care and identifying areas for improvement. The goal is to ensure that all individuals in the Ellamore area have access to the best possible care.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ellamore, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.