26270, Harman, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26270, Harman, West Virginia is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.63 percent of the residents in 26270 has some form of health insurance. 69.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.72 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 26270 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26270. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 141 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 426 health care providers accessible to residents in 26270, Harman, West Virginia.

Breast cancer care access and quality are multifaceted issues, and assessing them requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 26270, specifically focusing on Harman, West Virginia, to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but rather a composite evaluation based on several key factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological adoption, and the presence of mental health support.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system is the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Harman, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the area, compared to the population of Harman and the surrounding ZIP code, provides a preliminary understanding of access. A low ratio indicates potential difficulties in securing timely appointments for preventative screenings, diagnostic follow-ups, and ongoing care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of medical practices present are crucial. Are there established primary care practices with a history of patient care? Do they offer comprehensive services, including breast cancer screening referrals and coordination of care with specialists? Are there any dedicated women's health clinics or practices with a specific focus on breast health? The presence of such practices is a significant positive factor, as they often demonstrate a greater understanding of and commitment to this area of healthcare.

Another key element is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for expanding access, especially in rural areas like Harman. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies receive higher marks in this assessment. The ease of access to specialists through virtual platforms is a significant advantage.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, but critical, component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or through referral networks, is a significant factor in this assessment. Practices that actively integrate mental health services into their care models, or that have established referral partnerships, are viewed more favorably.

Specific practice characteristics play a significant role in the overall score. Does the practice have a dedicated patient navigator to assist patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment? Does the practice offer educational resources and support groups for patients and their families? Do they participate in breast cancer research or clinical trials? These factors demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Furthermore, the quality of screening services within the area is assessed. The availability of mammography services, including digital mammography and, if available, 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), is a critical factor. The accreditation status of imaging facilities (e.g., by the American College of Radiology) is also considered, as it indicates adherence to high standards of quality and safety. The timeliness of screening results and the efficiency of the referral process are also evaluated.

The presence of any standout practices in the area is noted. These are practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to breast cancer care, perhaps through innovative programs, high patient satisfaction scores, or active community outreach. These practices can serve as models for other providers and can significantly improve the overall quality of care within the community. Identifying these practices is an important part of the assessment.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 26270, specifically focusing on Harman, is a dynamic measure. It is not a static ranking but rather an evolving assessment of the healthcare landscape. It is influenced by the factors discussed above, weighted based on their relative importance to patient outcomes and overall access to care.

This analysis also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. The availability of specialized services, such as surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology, within a reasonable distance from Harman is evaluated. The ability of patients to access these services without undue travel burdens is a crucial factor in the overall score. The presence of support services, such as cancer support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and financial assistance programs, is also considered.

The impact of insurance coverage is also acknowledged. The availability of affordable health insurance options, including coverage for preventative screenings and cancer treatment, is a significant factor in access to care. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is assessed.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Harman. It highlights the critical factors that contribute to the quality of care and identifies areas where improvements are needed. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with information and to encourage the development of a robust and accessible healthcare system.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harman and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize geographic data, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the factors that influence breast cancer care in your community.