26591, Worthington, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.94 percent of the residents in 26591 has some form of health insurance. 32.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.60 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 26591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 652 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 326 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 828 health care providers accessible to residents in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia.

This analysis assesses breast cancer care within ZIP code 26591, focusing on physician availability, particularly primary care, and related resources in Worthington, West Virginia. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the landscape of care, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement. The analysis will not be a simple list, but rather a narrative exploring the complexities of accessing quality breast cancer care in this specific geographic context.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screening, diagnosis, and initial treatment pathways. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early detection. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with U.S. Census Bureau information on population density, can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio could be a significant barrier to timely care, particularly for women in need of routine mammograms or experiencing symptoms.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are they concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more rural parts of Worthington? Are there transportation limitations that might further exacerbate the issue? Analyzing the geographical distribution of practices, along with the availability of public transportation or ride-sharing services, is vital to understanding the accessibility of care.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. They may offer on-site mammography services, facilitating convenient screening. They might have dedicated nurse navigators who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, providing emotional support and practical assistance. Furthermore, these practices could have established relationships with local specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, streamlining the referral process and ensuring seamless coordination of care. The presence of these features often signifies a higher quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, making consultations and follow-up appointments more accessible, especially for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer telehealth services can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce the burden of travel. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), provides insight into the practice’s commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This might involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health providers, or referrals to support groups. Identifying the availability and accessibility of these resources is crucial for assessing the overall quality of care.

The availability of breast cancer support groups and educational resources also contributes to a comprehensive care environment. These groups provide a platform for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn from others who have faced similar challenges. Educational resources, such as pamphlets, websites, and workshops, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health. The presence of these resources indicates a practice’s commitment to patient education and support.

Assessing the insurance landscape is important. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, can impact access to care, particularly for vulnerable populations. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans ensure that more women can receive the care they need. Examining the financial aspects of care, including the availability of financial assistance programs, is another consideration.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in ZIP code 26591 is not solely determined by the availability of physicians. It’s a complex interplay of factors, including access to screening, the coordination of care, the availability of mental health support, and the financial aspects of treatment. A comprehensive assessment requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both quantitative data (e.g., physician-to-patient ratios) and qualitative factors (e.g., the presence of nurse navigators and support groups).

While this analysis provides a general overview, a more in-depth investigation would require access to detailed practice-level data, patient satisfaction surveys, and information on specific treatment protocols. It’s essential to acknowledge that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the availability of resources can change over time.

For a visual representation of the physician distribution, access to care, and the overall landscape of healthcare resources in Worthington, West Virginia, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of this information, allowing you to visualize physician locations, identify areas with limited access, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.