26437, Smithfield, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26437, Smithfield, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.34 percent of the residents in 26437 has some form of health insurance. 25.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.64 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 26437 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26437. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 334 health care providers accessible to residents in 26437, Smithfield, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Smithfield, WV (ZIP Code 26437)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within Smithfield, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26437), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician resources, and supporting services. The goal is to provide residents with a clear understanding of the local healthcare landscape, enabling informed decisions regarding their health.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a strong primary care infrastructure. In Smithfield, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical indicator. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Research into the specific ratio within ZIP Code 26437 is essential. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards should be consulted to ascertain this critical metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular breast cancer screenings, are paramount. This includes ensuring patients are up-to-date with mammograms and clinical breast exams, and providing education on self-breast exams. Evaluating the practices' adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the American Cancer Society or the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), offers insight into the standard of care.

The existence of standout primary care practices in Smithfield is another area of focus. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive screening protocols, and efficient referral systems is crucial. These practices often serve as models for others, driving overall improvements in care. This requires analyzing patient reviews, assessing practice accreditations, and possibly conducting site visits or interviews to gain deeper insights.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Smithfield. The ability to consult with specialists remotely can significantly improve breast cancer care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in ZIP Code 26437 is vital. This includes determining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and access to specialists via telehealth platforms. The integration of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to expertise, and enhance patient convenience.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is substantial. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis must examine the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, within Smithfield. Furthermore, it should evaluate the accessibility of these resources, including insurance acceptance, wait times, and the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients.

The referral pathways from primary care to specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, are also important. Efficient and well-established referral systems ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care. This analysis should examine the relationships between primary care practices and specialists in the region, including the proximity of specialist offices and the efficiency of the referral process.

Another factor to consider is the availability of specialized breast cancer services. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), surgical options, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Assessing the presence of these services within Smithfield or the surrounding areas is crucial. The proximity of these services and the ease of access are important considerations for patients.

The analysis should also consider the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and ensure that patients receive the care they need.

Beyond medical care, the availability of supportive services is also important. This includes access to financial assistance programs, transportation services, and support groups. These services can help patients manage the practical and emotional challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.

The analysis will also assess the availability of educational resources for patients. This includes access to information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support services. Patient education is essential for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.

This analysis will not only identify strengths but also highlight areas where improvements are needed. This could include advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting telemedicine adoption, or expanding mental health services.

The final report should be easy to understand and provide actionable insights for residents of Smithfield. The goal is to empower them to make informed decisions about their health and advocate for improvements in local breast cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Smithfield, including the location of primary care practices, specialist offices, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the local healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize the information and make informed decisions about your health.