26588, Rivesville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26588, Rivesville, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.69 percent of the residents in 26588 has some form of health insurance. 38.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.48 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 26588 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 487 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26588. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,213 health care providers accessible to residents in 26588, Rivesville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Rivesville, WV (ZIP Code 26588)

Analyzing the breast cancer care landscape in Rivesville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26588) necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting patient access, quality of care, and overall health outcomes, specifically focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to address breast cancer concerns. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This score isn't a single number but a synthesis of various data points, offering a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is early detection and consistent primary care. In Rivesville, assessing primary care availability is critical. This involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and the ability to provide more personalized care. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with information from healthcare directories, helps determine these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they clustered in one location, or are they geographically dispersed throughout Rivesville and the surrounding areas? This geographic analysis impacts access, especially for patients with limited mobility or transportation challenges. Furthermore, the scope of services offered by these PCPs needs examination. Do they offer on-site mammography screenings, or do they refer patients to external facilities? The presence of on-site screening capabilities streamlines the process, making it more convenient for patients and potentially leading to earlier detection.

The quality of primary care is another essential factor. This involves assessing the PCPs' experience, their adherence to national guidelines for breast cancer screening, and their engagement in continuing medical education. Are they actively participating in programs that promote early detection and preventative care? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to efficiently manage patient data and coordinate care with specialists? These elements contribute significantly to the overall quality of care.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employ innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, and actively participate in community outreach programs. Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists deserve recognition. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Rivesville. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent to which local PCPs utilize telemedicine platforms, and the types of services they offer remotely, is a key component of the analysis.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be significant. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patients' well-being. Evaluating the availability of these resources within Rivesville and the surrounding areas, including the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is critical. Assessing the collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also essential. Do PCPs routinely screen patients for mental health concerns and make appropriate referrals?

Another critical aspect is access to specialists. The analysis must consider the proximity of oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists involved in breast cancer treatment. Are these specialists readily accessible, or do patients need to travel long distances for care? The availability of specialized treatment centers, such as those offering radiation therapy or chemotherapy, is another important factor.

Community outreach and education programs play a vital role in raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection. Are there local initiatives that provide free or low-cost mammograms, educational workshops, or support groups? Assessing the presence and effectiveness of these programs is essential.

The analysis must also consider the socio-economic factors that can impact health outcomes. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all create barriers to care. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing strategies to improve access and outcomes for all patients.

Finally, the availability of patient navigation services is important. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. The presence of these services can significantly improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Rivesville, WV (ZIP Code 26588) is not a simple metric. It's a complex evaluation of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, community outreach, and socio-economic factors. A thorough analysis, utilizing data from various sources, is essential to gain a complete understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. For a visual representation of these data points, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Rivesville and beyond, consider using CartoChrome maps. They provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize and analyze the data, offering a powerful tool for understanding the breast cancer care landscape.