26542, Masontown, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26542, Masontown, West Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.27 percent of the residents in 26542 has some form of health insurance. 43.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.03 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 26542 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 370 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 59 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26542. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 530 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,723 health care providers accessible to residents in 26542, Masontown, West Virginia.

Breast cancer care within ZIP code 26542, encompassing Masontown, West Virginia, presents a complex picture. Evaluating the quality and accessibility of care requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis will delve into the current landscape, examining physician-to-patient ratios, highlighting standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and exploring the availability of mental health resources – all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer treatment and support.

Masontown, a small town, likely faces challenges in attracting and retaining a large pool of medical professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a critical starting point. While precise, up-to-the-minute data is difficult to obtain publicly, national averages suggest a benchmark. Areas with higher ratios, meaning fewer physicians per capita, often experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating more physicians, can lead to more accessible care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is especially vital. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a key role in early detection through screenings and referrals. Limited PCP access can significantly impact the timeliness of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying standout practices requires examining the quality of care provided. This includes looking at the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like mammography and MRI, and the presence of a multidisciplinary care team. A multidisciplinary team typically comprises surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses, working collaboratively to develop and implement a personalized treatment plan. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS) for cancer programs indicates a commitment to quality and adherence to rigorous standards. Furthermore, patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate initial screenings, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support. The availability of telemedicine services can reduce the need for patients to travel long distances, saving time and reducing the burden of travel costs. The adoption rate of telemedicine among practices in 26542 needs to be assessed. This involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointment options, the use of remote monitoring technologies, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and other resources that can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression associated with the disease. Assessing the mental health support available in Masontown involves examining the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan. Collaboration between oncologists, primary care physicians, and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive care.

Primary care availability in Masontown is a central pillar of breast cancer care. The ease with which residents can access a PCP directly influences the effectiveness of early detection efforts. PCPs are responsible for performing routine screenings, such as mammograms, and for referring patients to specialists if any concerns arise. A shortage of PCPs, or extended wait times to see a PCP, can delay the detection of breast cancer, leading to a lower chance of successful treatment. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent issues is also an important consideration.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities is also relevant. The presence of modern, well-equipped facilities, including imaging centers and treatment centers, is essential for providing high-quality care. The proximity of these facilities to the community is another factor, as longer travel times can be a barrier to accessing care, especially for patients who are undergoing treatment. The availability of transportation assistance programs can help patients overcome this barrier.

Financial considerations also play a role in accessing care. The cost of breast cancer treatment can be substantial, and patients may face challenges in affording the care they need. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers is essential. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by hospitals or cancer organizations, can help patients manage the cost of treatment.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Masontown (ZIP code 26542) requires a comprehensive evaluation. While precise data on physician-to-patient ratios and practice-specific metrics is not always publicly available, the factors discussed above – physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and financial considerations – provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. Improving access to quality breast cancer care requires addressing these factors and working collaboratively to create a supportive environment for patients.

For a more detailed, visually-driven analysis of healthcare access in Masontown and surrounding areas, including physician locations, facility information, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in your community.