26422, Reynoldsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26422, Reynoldsville, West Virginia is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.35 percent of the residents in 26422 has some form of health insurance. 23.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.74 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 26422 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 104 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26422. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 56 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 945 health care providers accessible to residents in 26422, Reynoldsville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Reynoldsville, WV (ZIP Code 26422)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape within Reynoldsville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26422) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized breast cancer services, and the overall support system available to patients. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering key factors crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care system rests on accessible and competent primary care. In Reynoldsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, such as mammograms. A thorough investigation of the local healthcare network is required to determine the current ratio. This involves researching the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population of Reynoldsville. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the US Census Bureau will be essential for this calculation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis should evaluate the practices' adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening and prevention. This includes examining whether they consistently recommend mammograms for women aged 40 and older, based on current recommendations from organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force. Another key aspect is the availability of patient education materials about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices known for their commitment to patient care and their proactive approach to breast cancer screening and management. This could include practices that have implemented patient reminder systems for mammograms, offer comprehensive breast exams, and actively participate in community outreach programs to promote breast cancer awareness. Patient reviews, if available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the physician's communication skills, empathy, and ability to address patient concerns.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the analysis. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, particularly in rural areas like Reynoldsville, where access to specialized care can be limited. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with oncologists, breast surgeons, and other specialists can reduce travel burdens and improve access to expert advice. The analysis should assess the availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients in the area. This includes identifying practices that offer virtual appointments, the types of services available via telemedicine, and the ease of access for patients.

The emotional and psychological well-being of breast cancer patients is often overlooked, but it's a critical component of their overall health. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Reynoldsville and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The availability of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with the emotional challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The analysis should also consider whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals.

The presence of specialized breast cancer services is a key factor in the overall score. While Reynoldsville may not have a dedicated cancer center, the analysis should assess the proximity to such facilities in neighboring towns or cities. This includes evaluating the availability of breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists involved in breast cancer treatment. The analysis should also consider the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography and MRI, which can improve the accuracy of diagnosis.

The score must also reflect the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system. Patient navigators can provide assistance with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance programs. The analysis should also evaluate the availability of resources for survivors, such as support groups, rehabilitation services, and educational programs.

Assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Reynoldsville requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized breast cancer services all contribute to the overall score. The identification of standout practices and the evaluation of patient experiences are also essential components of the analysis.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a holistic assessment of the healthcare system's ability to provide timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support to breast cancer patients. This score is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to fighting this disease and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need.

Understanding the geographical distribution of these resources is crucial. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data gathered in this analysis, showing the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services within and around Reynoldsville. This visual representation can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and identify areas where resources are lacking.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Reynoldsville and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed view of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and support services, offering a valuable tool for understanding the accessibility of breast cancer care in the region.