26349, Galloway, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.68 percent of the residents in 26349 has some form of health insurance. 73.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 24.39 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 26349 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 26349. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 26349, Galloway, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26349 and Galloway Primary Care

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within ZIP code 26349, focusing on the town of Galloway and its surrounding areas. We aim to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," evaluating various factors crucial to patient care, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. This score is a synthesized assessment, not a definitive rating, but rather a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care is readily accessible primary care. In Galloway, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. We must consider the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26349 and the surrounding county is paramount. Public health data, insurance provider networks, and local hospital systems are key sources for this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the type and quality of primary care are vital. Do practices in Galloway offer comprehensive preventative screenings, including mammograms? Are they proactive in educating patients about breast cancer risk factors and early detection strategies? The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is also significant. EHRs facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians, specialists, and patients, improving care coordination. Patient portals empower individuals to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their doctors, fostering greater patient engagement.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These practices might excel in patient satisfaction, offer specialized services like genetic counseling for high-risk individuals, or have a proven track record of early detection and successful treatment outcomes. Identifying these practices requires examining patient reviews, surveying local community resources, and consulting with regional healthcare organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Galloway. It allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians and specialists in the area is essential. Do they offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups or post-operative care? Do they utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient progress?

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within 26349 and the surrounding areas is essential. Are there local therapists specializing in oncology support? Does the local hospital offer mental health services for cancer patients? Are support groups available?

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 26349 and Galloway would be constructed by weighting these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care (including screening and patient education), telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources would each contribute to the overall score. Standout practices would positively influence the score, while areas with limited access or resources would negatively impact it.

The score would be presented as a relative measure, comparing the healthcare landscape of 26349 to regional or national benchmarks. This comparison would highlight the areas where the community excels and the areas where improvements are needed. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is significantly higher than the national average, this would negatively impact the score. Conversely, if a high percentage of practices offer telemedicine options, this would positively impact the score.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" would not be a static number. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices opening, technological advancements, and policy changes can all impact the score. This dynamic approach ensures that the score remains relevant and useful to patients and healthcare providers.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the specific needs of the population in Galloway. The demographics of the area, including age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, can influence the types of healthcare services that are needed. Tailoring the "Breast Cancer Score" to the specific needs of the community ensures that it is a relevant and effective tool for improving breast cancer care.

The analysis must also consider the presence of specialists. Access to oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. The location of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access them are important factors. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated cancer center would also significantly improve the score.

In conclusion, evaluating breast cancer care in 26349 and Galloway requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. The "Breast Cancer Score" framework outlined above provides a structured approach to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. By considering physician access, practice quality, technological integration, mental health support, and the specific needs of the community, we can work towards improving breast cancer care and outcomes for all residents.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of 26349 and beyond? Explore the power of geographical data with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, healthcare resource distribution, and patient access.