26554, Fairmont, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.86 percent of the residents in 26554 has some form of health insurance. 41.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.40 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 26554 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26554. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,976 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,857 health care providers accessible to residents in 26554, Fairmont, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Fairmont, WV (ZIP Code 26554)

This analysis aims to provide an understanding of the breast cancer care landscape within Fairmont, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26554), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, and related resources. The goal is to generate a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the accessibility and comprehensiveness of care for individuals in this area. This score will consider factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support for those affected by breast cancer.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon a strong primary care infrastructure. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Fairmont is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and a compromised ability to manage chronic conditions, including those related to breast cancer. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with data from the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio. A detailed examination of the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code, coupled with the population of the area, will provide a crucial baseline for the Breast Cancer Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. The Breast Cancer Score must evaluate the practices of PCPs in Fairmont. This involves examining factors such as the availability of on-site mammography referrals, the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines (e.g., adherence to age recommendations for mammograms), and the ability to address patient concerns regarding breast health. Practices that actively promote preventative care, including patient education on self-exams and risk factors, will score higher. Furthermore, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with specialist practices is crucial for seamless care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Breast Cancer Score. The ability for patients to access virtual consultations with their PCPs or specialists can significantly improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and patient portals, will be viewed favorably. The availability of telehealth services can be a lifeline for patients navigating the complexities of breast cancer care, reducing the burden of travel and potentially speeding up access to crucial information and support.

The emotional and psychological toll of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. The Breast Cancer Score must consider the availability of mental health resources within Fairmont. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or women’s health. Practices that proactively integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their care protocols will receive higher scores. Furthermore, the accessibility of support groups, both in-person and online, is vital for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges. The availability of these resources directly impacts the overall well-being of patients and contributes to their ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of the disease.

Identifying standout practices within Fairmont is a key aspect of the analysis. This involves identifying those PCPs and practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This could involve practices with a proven track record of early detection, those that actively participate in community outreach and education programs, or those that have implemented innovative approaches to patient care. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to a higher overall Breast Cancer Score for the community.

The Breast Cancer Score will also consider the availability of specialists, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, within a reasonable distance of Fairmont. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are critical for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will assess the number of specialists in the surrounding areas, the ease of referral from primary care practices, and the availability of advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, working collaboratively to provide coordinated care, is a significant factor in determining the score.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Fairmont will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialists. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible system of care, while a lower score highlights areas that need improvement. The score will be accompanied by specific recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Fairmont, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health services.

This analysis is not intended to provide medical advice, but rather to offer an objective assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Fairmont. The findings can be used by healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for resources that will enhance the quality of care for individuals affected by breast cancer. The goal is to empower the community with information, facilitating informed decisions and fostering a healthier future.

To further understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent this data, providing a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Fairmont and the surrounding areas. This visual representation can be invaluable for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners alike.