26343, Crawford, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 26343 has some form of health insurance. 80.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.25 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 26343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 97 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 481 health care providers accessible to residents in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26343 and Primary Care Availability in Crawford, WV

This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer care resources within ZIP code 26343, focusing on the physicians practicing in this area and the broader primary care landscape in Crawford, West Virginia. We'll examine factors crucial for early detection and treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact a patient's journey. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment and identify areas for potential improvement.

Crawford County, like many rural areas, faces challenges related to healthcare access. The geographical spread of the population, coupled with potential shortages of medical professionals, can create significant hurdles for individuals seeking timely and comprehensive care. Therefore, understanding the specific resources within ZIP code 26343 is paramount.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased stress on existing medical staff. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 26343 requires accessing data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and cross-referencing it with census data. This analysis would ideally include the number of primary care physicians, general surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within the ZIP code. A low ratio for any of these specialists, especially oncologists and radiologists, would be a significant red flag, potentially forcing patients to travel outside the area for essential services.

Identifying standout practices is another crucial aspect of this analysis. This involves researching the reputations of existing practices, evaluating their services, and assessing their commitment to breast cancer care. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced imaging technologies like mammography and MRI, the presence of certified breast health navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, and the practice's participation in clinical trials. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to patient education, offer comprehensive screening programs, and collaborate effectively with specialists are considered high-performing.

The adoption of telemedicine is particularly relevant in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within 26343 involves investigating whether local practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access, especially for those facing mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in breast cancer care, but they are essential. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound emotional and psychological effects. Assessing the availability of mental health support within 26343 involves investigating whether local practices offer access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Ideally, these resources should be integrated into the overall care plan, providing patients with comprehensive support throughout their journey. Collaboration between oncologists, primary care physicians, and mental health professionals is crucial for ensuring patients receive the holistic care they need.

Primary care availability in Crawford County, beyond the specific ZIP code, is also a critical factor. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. A robust primary care system can facilitate early detection through screening and referrals, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the number of primary care physicians practicing in Crawford County, their distribution across the county, and the ease with which patients can access appointments. Factors like insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of evening or weekend appointments also play a significant role.

Specific practices within 26343 should be thoroughly researched. This includes identifying the physicians practicing within the ZIP code, their specialties, and their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from professional organizations can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by each practice. It is essential to determine which practices offer comprehensive breast cancer screening services, including mammography, ultrasound, and potentially MRI. The availability of these services within the ZIP code eliminates the need for patients to travel long distances for essential diagnostic procedures.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the presence of any community-based resources that support breast cancer patients. This could include support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance programs. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can create a more comprehensive and supportive environment for patients.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 26343 and the broader primary care environment in Crawford County requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources are all critical steps. Understanding the specific resources available, the challenges faced by patients, and the opportunities for improvement is essential for ensuring that individuals in this area have access to the best possible care.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 26343 and Crawford County, including physician locations, access to services, and demographic data, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources, helping to identify areas with limited access and informing strategies for improvement.