26547, Reedsville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26547, Reedsville, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 26547 has some form of health insurance. 36.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.91 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 26547 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 783 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 65 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26547. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,318 health care providers accessible to residents in 26547, Reedsville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Reedsville, WV (ZIP Code 26547)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Reedsville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26547), evaluating the availability and quality of resources for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. The assessment considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care ecosystem.

Reedsville, a predominantly rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare access. The population density is relatively low, potentially leading to longer travel times for appointments and specialized care. This geographic constraint significantly impacts the overall Breast Cancer Score. The analysis will explore how the community navigates these limitations and identifies potential areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

A critical metric in evaluating healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients, often conducting breast cancer screenings and providing referrals to specialists. A low PCP-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can result in longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced preventative care.

In Reedsville, the physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain healthcare professionals due to factors like lower salaries, limited career opportunities, and the isolation of rural life. This scarcity of PCPs can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, potentially impacting the timely delivery of breast cancer screening and diagnostic services. Further investigation into the specific ratio within the ZIP code is essential to understand the severity of this issue. The availability of specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, is also critical. The analysis must consider the proximity of these specialists and the ease of access for patients in Reedsville.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout medical practices within the community is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, and a commitment to community health. The presence of a practice with a strong focus on women's health, including breast cancer screening and treatment, can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score.

The analysis will investigate local medical practices, assessing their services, patient outcomes, and community involvement. Factors considered include the availability of mammography services, the presence of dedicated breast cancer specialists, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that prioritize early detection, offer comprehensive support services, and actively participate in community outreach programs will be viewed favorably. The analysis will also examine whether any practices have established partnerships with larger healthcare systems or cancer centers, which could provide access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources can significantly improve the Breast Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge the geographic gap, allowing patients in Reedsville to connect with specialists and receive timely care without the burden of extensive travel.

The analysis will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by local medical practices. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations for breast cancer screenings, follow-up appointments, and mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them into their care delivery models will be recognized for their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, will also be considered.

**Mental Health Resources:**

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the availability and accessibility of these resources within Reedsville.

The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients and survivors will be viewed favorably. The analysis will also assess the integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system, ensuring that patients have easy access to the support they need. The availability of financial assistance programs to cover the cost of mental health services is also important.

**Primary Care Availability in Reedsville:**

The availability of primary care is a cornerstone of preventative healthcare and early detection of breast cancer. The analysis will specifically examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within Reedsville. This includes assessing the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments.

Factors such as the presence of walk-in clinics, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans will be considered. The analysis will also examine the PCP's awareness of breast cancer screening guidelines and their commitment to educating patients about preventative care. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care services, will be factored into the assessment. The proximity of primary care facilities to residential areas is also a key consideration.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Reedsville, WV (ZIP code 26547) is a complex assessment, influenced by a multitude of factors. The availability of primary care, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles in shaping the overall score. The analysis highlights the need for continuous improvement, particularly in areas where resources are limited.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and potential areas for improvement in Reedsville, WV, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic data. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic platform for visualizing health data, identifying underserved areas, and understanding the spatial relationships between healthcare resources and the community.