26320, Alma, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26320, Alma, West Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.03 percent of the residents in 26320 has some form of health insurance. 52.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.04 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 26320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26320. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 108 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 92 health care providers accessible to residents in 26320, Alma, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26320 and Alma, WV

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 26320, encompassing the town of Alma, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of healthcare providers, specifically focusing on their capacity to address breast cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This assessment considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The findings are intended to provide a clearer understanding of the healthcare environment for residents and potential patients in the area.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on the strength of its primary care infrastructure. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in early detection through breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms. The availability of PCPs in Alma is a crucial indicator of the overall healthcare accessibility. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio offers a quantitative measure of the resources available. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. This can negatively impact the timeliness of breast cancer detection and treatment.

Evaluating the primary care landscape requires a closer look at the practices within and around ZIP code 26320. The size and structure of these practices – whether they are solo practices, group practices, or affiliated with larger healthcare systems – can influence the range of services offered and the level of specialization available. Larger practices may have the resources to invest in advanced diagnostic equipment and employ specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, who are vital for breast cancer care. Conversely, smaller practices might offer a more personalized approach, fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships that can be crucial during a cancer journey.

Beyond the presence of primary care physicians, the availability of specialists is a key component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. Oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists are essential for diagnosing, treating, and managing breast cancer. Assessing the proximity of these specialists to Alma is vital. Travel distance can be a significant barrier for patients, especially those undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments. The ability to access these specialists locally, or within a reasonable travel distance, is a critical factor in the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a transformative shift in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The use of telehealth can enhance access to care by reducing the need for travel, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely, and providing convenient follow-up appointments. Examining the extent to which practices in ZIP code 26320 have embraced telemedicine is essential. Practices that offer telehealth services are better positioned to serve patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas.

Breast cancer is not just a physical ailment; it also significantly impacts a patient’s mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Patients undergoing treatment often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to these resources is crucial for supporting patients through their journey. Evaluating the presence of mental health providers and support groups within the community, or within a reasonable distance, is a key element of this analysis.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. This requires an assessment of their patient reviews, their commitment to patient education, and their utilization of best practices in breast cancer care. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, that actively engage in preventative screenings, and that offer comprehensive support services are likely to be more effective in providing quality care. Identifying these practices can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis also needs to consider the specific resources available for breast cancer screening. The presence of mammography units, and the frequency with which these units are utilized, are key indicators of the community’s ability to detect breast cancer early. The availability of other screening methods, such as breast ultrasounds and MRIs, should also be assessed. Furthermore, the analysis should examine the practices' commitment to educating patients about breast cancer risk factors and the importance of regular screenings.

The healthcare landscape in Alma and the surrounding ZIP code is dynamic. Healthcare providers may change their service offerings or introduce new technologies. The physician-to-patient ratio may fluctuate. This analysis is a snapshot in time. It is critical to regularly update the information to provide an accurate picture of the healthcare environment.

To summarize, a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in ZIP code 26320 and the Alma area requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates the evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare environment, to identify areas of strength, and to pinpoint areas where improvements are needed. This will help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure that they have access to the best possible care.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Alma and the surrounding areas? Explore the data with interactive maps! CartoChrome maps offers detailed visualizations of healthcare resources, allowing you to pinpoint doctors, specialists, and support services in your area.