26287, Parsons, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26287, Parsons, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.18 percent of the residents in 26287 has some form of health insurance. 48.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.74 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 26287 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 555 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26287. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 579 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 491 health care providers accessible to residents in 26287, Parsons, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Parsons, WV (ZIP Code 26287)

This analysis aims to evaluate the landscape of breast cancer care within the service area of Parsons, West Virginia (ZIP code 26287), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their ability to support breast cancer screening and early detection. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care pathway.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon a robust primary care infrastructure. In Parsons, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining medical professionals. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate limited access to timely medical care, including preventative screenings like mammograms, which are vital for early breast cancer detection. Research into the specific ratio within 26287, comparing it to state and national averages, is essential to establish a baseline understanding of the community's access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources can be used to estimate this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves assessing factors such as the physicians' board certifications, their experience in women's health, and their commitment to preventative care. Practices that actively promote breast cancer screening guidelines, educate patients about risk factors, and facilitate referrals to specialists (such as oncologists and radiologists) are considered higher-quality providers. Reviewing online patient testimonials, examining the practices' websites for information on their services, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their breast cancer care protocols are essential steps in evaluating their quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Parsons can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for routine care. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have mobility limitations or face transportation challenges. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires researching which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services they provide remotely, and the technology they utilize.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. PCPs in Parsons should be equipped to identify patients who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges related to breast cancer. The ability to refer patients to qualified mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves investigating the local mental health services available, including the presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care providers.

Furthermore, the integration of these components is key. A well-coordinated care pathway involves seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and mental health providers. This coordination ensures that patients receive timely screenings, accurate diagnoses, effective treatment, and emotional support. Analyzing the level of coordination within the Parsons healthcare system requires examining the referral patterns between PCPs and specialists, the use of electronic health records to share patient information, and the presence of any integrated care programs that facilitate communication and collaboration.

In assessing breast cancer care, the availability of specific screening services is crucial. This includes access to mammography facilities, the frequency of screening recommendations, and the process for obtaining referrals for further diagnostic testing if needed. The proximity of these facilities to the population is also a factor. The easier it is to get to a mammogram, the more likely women are to get screened. This involves identifying the nearest mammography centers, understanding their operating hours, and evaluating the ease of scheduling appointments.

The role of patient education cannot be overstated. PCPs should actively educate their patients about breast cancer risk factors, early detection methods, and the importance of regular screenings. This education should be tailored to the individual patient's risk profile and cultural background. Evaluating the level of patient education involves assessing the practices' educational materials, the physicians' communication styles, and the availability of resources such as brochures, websites, and support groups.

Another important aspect of breast cancer care is the availability of financial assistance programs. The costs associated with screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be significant. PCPs should be aware of and be able to direct patients to financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society, the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and state-funded programs. This involves identifying the financial assistance programs available in the area and assessing the practices' knowledge of and ability to connect patients with these resources.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Parsons, WV (ZIP code 26287) requires a holistic approach. This includes assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the coordination of care, the availability of screening services, the level of patient education, and the availability of financial assistance programs. By gathering and analyzing data on these factors, a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" can be developed, providing a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and access points, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, mammography centers, and mental health services, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Parsons, WV. They can also be used to identify areas with limited access to care and to plan strategies for improving healthcare delivery.

**Call to Action:**

Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the breast cancer care landscape in Parsons, WV. Gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas for improvement. Contact us today to learn more about how CartoChrome can help you visualize and improve healthcare access in your community.