26405, Moatsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.75 percent of the residents in 26405 has some form of health insurance. 68.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 26405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 272 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26405. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 333 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 143 health care providers accessible to residents in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia.

Analyzing breast cancer care within the ZIP code 26405, encompassing the community of Moatsville, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the supporting infrastructure that contributes to overall patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the resources available to individuals facing this challenging diagnosis.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in early detection through screening recommendations and referrals. In Moatsville, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, along with information from local hospitals and clinics, would be necessary to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 26405 ZIP code. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care services.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This includes the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society, and the ability to efficiently refer patients to specialists. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is a key factor, enabling seamless communication between PCPs and specialists, ensuring that patient information is readily accessible and that treatment plans are coordinated effectively. The integration of EHRs also facilitates the tracking of preventative care measures, such as mammograms, ensuring that patients receive timely screenings.

The availability of specialized breast cancer services is another critical component of the analysis. This includes access to radiologists for mammography and other imaging services, surgeons specializing in breast cancer treatment, medical oncologists for chemotherapy and other systemic therapies, and radiation oncologists for radiation therapy. The presence of these specialists within or near the 26405 ZIP code significantly impacts patient outcomes. Patients who can access comprehensive care locally experience fewer delays in diagnosis and treatment. The analysis must also consider the proximity of these specialists, as longer travel times can pose a significant barrier to care, especially for patients who may be experiencing side effects from treatment.

Standout practices within the region would be identified based on their commitment to patient-centered care, their adoption of innovative technologies, and their participation in clinical trials. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, including genetic counseling and risk assessment, would be considered exemplary. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in research and clinical trials provide patients with access to the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Moatsville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists who may not be located nearby. This can include virtual consultations with oncologists, support groups, and access to educational resources. The analysis will assess the extent to which local healthcare providers utilize telemedicine platforms to enhance patient care and improve access to specialized services.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the 26405 ZIP code. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential to address the psychological and emotional challenges that patients face. This includes the availability of licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in cancer-related issues.

The availability of patient navigators is another critical factor. Patient navigators act as guides, helping patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. The analysis will assess the availability of patient navigation services within the local healthcare system.

The analysis will also consider the accessibility of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society and other non-profit organizations. These programs can help patients cover the costs of treatment, medications, and other expenses. The availability of transportation services is another crucial factor, as patients may need assistance getting to and from appointments.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Moatsville requires a comprehensive examination of primary care availability, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall infrastructure supporting patient care. The analysis will identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, clinic locations, and the proximity of specialists, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape within the 26405 ZIP code.