26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.13 percent of the residents in 26330 has some form of health insurance. 34.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.83 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 26330 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,573 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26330. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,322 health care providers accessible to residents in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Bridgeport, WV (ZIP Code 26330)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the specific needs of residents in Bridgeport, West Virginia (ZIP code 26330), evaluating the landscape of primary care physicians, specialist access, and supportive resources. This will culminate in a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, providing a nuanced understanding of the community's healthcare readiness.

The foundation of good breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection and regular screenings are critical, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. In Bridgeport, the availability of primary care physicians needs careful scrutiny. Are there enough doctors to meet the needs of the population? Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with information from professional organizations like the American Medical Association, will be essential to determine this ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signal potential access challenges, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as mammography equipment? Practices that proactively emphasize preventative care, including breast cancer screening and education, should be considered highly valuable. Information on practice profiles, patient reviews, and accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) will be integral to this evaluation.

Specialist access is another critical component. Prompt referrals to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of specialists to Bridgeport residents is a key factor. How far do patients need to travel for consultations, biopsies, or treatments? Proximity to hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers, such as those affiliated with larger regional healthcare systems, will be a significant advantage. The availability of specialists and their ability to collaborate effectively with primary care physicians are vital.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the Bridgeport area utilize telemedicine platforms is important. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care process. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access and convenience for their patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for patients navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of cancer can be significant. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is vital. Evaluating the availability of these resources in the Bridgeport area, including the presence of therapists specializing in oncology or chronic illness, is an important consideration. Collaboration between healthcare providers and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive care.

Another factor to consider is insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is essential to ensure access for all residents. Practices that are in-network with a wide range of insurance providers are better positioned to serve the diverse needs of the community. Information on insurance acceptance rates will be integrated into the final score.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite metric, considering all the factors mentioned above. It will reflect the overall healthcare readiness of the Bridgeport community in addressing breast cancer. The score will be expressed on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to care, higher quality of care, and a more supportive environment for patients. This score is not intended to be a definitive rating of individual physicians but rather a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem in the area.

Standout practices within the ZIP code will be identified based on their commitment to patient care, preventative screening, and utilization of advanced technologies. These practices will be highlighted for their exemplary services, including their commitment to patient education, their integration of telemedicine, and their collaboration with specialists. These practices will serve as models for others in the community.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for Bridgeport (ZIP code 26330) will be a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The analysis will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, including new physician arrivals, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of healthcare services.

This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bridgeport, WV, specifically concerning breast cancer care. It highlights areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage healthcare providers to strive for excellence.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bridgeport, WV, and visualize the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and making informed decisions about your health and well-being.