26346, Ellenboro, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26346, Ellenboro, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.43 percent of the residents in 26346 has some form of health insurance. 52.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.91 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 26346 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 80 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26346. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 162 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 26346, Ellenboro, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Ellenboro, WV (ZIP Code 26346)

Evaluating healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area, particularly concerning a critical health issue like breast cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within Ellenboro, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26346), focusing on physician availability, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This is not a definitive ranking but an assessment based on available data and reasonable assumptions, aiming to offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any breast cancer care system rests upon accessible primary care. Ellenboro, a small community, presents inherent challenges in this regard. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 26346 ZIP code is crucial. Publicly available databases, such as the West Virginia Board of Medicine’s physician directory, are the starting point, but these might not always reflect real-time availability or specialization. A low physician-to-patient ratio, which could be determined by cross-referencing physician counts with the population of Ellenboro and its surrounding areas, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments for preventative screenings, initial diagnoses, and ongoing management of breast cancer.

The availability of specialists, such as oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, is another critical factor. Ellenboro, due to its size, likely lacks these specialists within the immediate ZIP code. This necessitates patients traveling to larger regional centers like Parkersburg or Clarksburg for specialized care. This travel burden can significantly impact access to care, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment, particularly for individuals with limited transportation options or mobility issues. The distance to these specialists directly affects the Breast Cancer Score.

Examining the practices within the area requires a closer look at their operational models. Are there any standout practices in the region? This involves researching the quality of care at the practices. Are they using the latest technology? Are they using electronic health records? Are they open on the weekends? Are they transparent with their patients? Researching patient reviews, if available, can offer insights into patient satisfaction, wait times, and the overall experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and proactively manage patient communication are likely to score higher.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine capabilities by local healthcare providers is a significant indicator. Does the local primary care provider offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or preliminary consultations? The availability of telehealth options for specialist consultations, such as oncology or radiology, can significantly reduce the need for travel and improve patient convenience. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine will receive a higher score.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is critical. Are mental health services readily available? Does the primary care provider screen for mental health issues? Are there any support groups for breast cancer patients in the area? A robust network of mental health resources contributes significantly to a higher Breast Cancer Score.

The presence of breast cancer screening programs, such as mobile mammography units or partnerships with local hospitals for screening initiatives, can enhance the Breast Cancer Score. These programs increase access to early detection, which is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.

The overall rating for Ellenboro, WV (ZIP Code 26346) is likely to be moderate. The challenges presented by a rural location, including limited physician availability, the need for travel to access specialists, and the potential for limited access to mental health resources, are likely to negatively impact the score. However, practices that embrace telemedicine, offer patient-centered care, and actively promote early detection through screening programs can mitigate some of these challenges.

To improve the Breast Cancer Score, the community should focus on several key areas. Expanding the number of primary care physicians, recruiting specialists, and promoting telemedicine are crucial. Strengthening partnerships with regional hospitals and cancer centers to provide access to specialized care and screening programs is essential. Integrating mental health services into the primary care setting and establishing local support groups can significantly improve the quality of care.

The Breast Cancer Score is dynamic. It is a snapshot of the current healthcare environment. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients in Ellenboro receive the best possible care.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Ellenboro, WV, and surrounding areas? CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for analyzing geographic data, identifying healthcare gaps, and visualizing physician distribution. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.