26385, Lost Creek, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26385, Lost Creek, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.44 percent of the residents in 26385 has some form of health insurance. 39.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.47 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 26385 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 681 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26385. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 696 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 465 health care providers accessible to residents in 26385, Lost Creek, West Virginia.

Breast cancer care within the confines of ZIP code 26385, encompassing the community of Lost Creek, West Virginia, presents a complex picture. Assessing the quality of care requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility of services, the utilization of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis, while aiming for specificity, acknowledges the limitations of publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare delivery. We will analyze the landscape, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a strong primary care infrastructure. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, crucial for early detection through routine screenings and referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs in Lost Creek is a critical indicator of overall healthcare access. Assessing this involves examining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, and then calculating a physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into primary care access. However, this data often lacks the granular detail needed for a precise assessment within a specific ZIP code.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a vital metric. Lost Creek, being a relatively small community, might face challenges in attracting and retaining a high number of physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio could signal potential difficulties in accessing timely care, particularly for preventative screenings such as mammograms. Furthermore, it's essential to evaluate the age and specialization of the physicians practicing within the area. The presence of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and gynecologists is crucial for comprehensive breast cancer care. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, is also a key factor. If these specialists are not readily available locally, patients may need to travel to larger cities for diagnosis and treatment, which can add significant stress and financial burden.

Identifying standout practices involves examining the quality of care provided by the existing medical professionals. This assessment is challenging, as it requires access to data on patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. While specific practice rankings are difficult to determine without direct access to patient data, indicators such as the presence of accredited facilities, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the availability of patient education materials can offer insights. Practices that prioritize patient education and communication are likely to provide a higher quality of care. The use of EHRs allows for better coordination of care, improved accuracy of medical records, and facilitates the sharing of information between different healthcare providers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Lost Creek can significantly impact breast cancer care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. This can be especially beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires identifying which practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services offered through telemedicine, and the availability of technical support for patients. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is a critical factor in the successful implementation of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health support, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local therapists, counselors, and support groups. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is vital for providing coordinated care. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Specific data regarding the practices in Lost Creek and surrounding areas is difficult to ascertain without specific access to patient information. However, we can infer some potential practices that may be available. For example, the local hospital, if there is one, or a clinic affiliated with a larger healthcare system, would likely be a primary point of care. These facilities would be more likely to have the resources to provide comprehensive care. The existence of a local health department can also provide a point of access to resources and screenings. Independent practices would be another option, and their offerings would vary depending on the size and resources of the practice.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 26385, Lost Creek, requires a multifaceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical factors in assessing the quality of care. While specific practice rankings are difficult to determine without access to detailed patient data, the availability of preventative screenings, the presence of accredited facilities, and the integration of mental health services are all important indicators of a good quality of care. The challenges of rural healthcare access, including limited resources and geographic barriers, can be mitigated through strategic planning and the implementation of innovative technologies.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lost Creek and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, physician availability, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the data and can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare options.