26638, Shock, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26638, Shock, West Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.64 percent of the residents in 26638 has some form of health insurance. 78.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.87 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 26638 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26638. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 234 health care providers accessible to residents in 26638, Shock, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26638 and Shock

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26638, focusing on primary care access in the broader context of Shock. It aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering key factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. This evaluation offers a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals in this area, particularly those facing the challenges of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care pathway rests upon accessible and responsive primary care. In Shock, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of early detection and management. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, facilitating timely interventions. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26638 and the surrounding Shock area needs to be rigorously assessed to establish a baseline understanding of access. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards would be essential to determine this ratio accurately.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves evaluating factors like the availability of female physicians, given their potential comfort level for patients, particularly those navigating breast health concerns. Practices that actively promote and facilitate breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and provide patient education are highly valued. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated care coordinators within these practices can streamline the patient journey, ensuring smooth transitions between primary care, specialists, and support services. Evaluating practices based on patient satisfaction scores, as well as their integration with local hospitals and cancer centers, will provide a more complete picture of the quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can mitigate geographical barriers, allowing patients in 26638 to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the ease of access to these services. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, offering flexible and convenient care options, will score higher in this category.

The psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be profound. Mental health support is therefore an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the Shock area, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer centers is particularly beneficial. Practices that offer on-site counseling or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will contribute positively to the overall "Breast Cancer Score." The availability of support groups specifically tailored to breast cancer patients and survivors is also a crucial factor, providing a space for shared experiences and emotional support.

Identifying standout practices is a key objective. These practices demonstrate excellence in various aspects of breast cancer care. This involves analyzing their commitment to early detection through regular screenings, their integration of telemedicine to enhance patient access, and their provision of comprehensive mental health support. Practices that consistently achieve high patient satisfaction scores, demonstrate a commitment to patient education, and actively participate in community outreach programs will be recognized as leaders in the field. These standout practices serve as models for other healthcare providers in the region.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a static metric. It needs to be dynamic, reflecting changes in healthcare delivery and the evolving needs of the community. Regular updates are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the assessment. This requires ongoing monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. Furthermore, the analysis should incorporate patient feedback and incorporate data from reputable sources.

The assessment of breast cancer care in 26638 and Shock should also consider the presence of local hospitals and cancer centers. The quality of these institutions, their accreditation status, and their access to advanced treatment options, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, are all critical factors. The analysis should evaluate the collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and these institutions to ensure seamless care coordination for patients.

Data privacy and ethical considerations are paramount. All data used in the analysis must be handled in accordance with HIPAA regulations and other relevant privacy laws. The analysis should not include any personally identifiable information. The focus should be on aggregate data and publicly available information to ensure patient confidentiality.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" analysis for ZIP code 26638 and Shock requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment provides a valuable tool for individuals seeking breast cancer care, as well as for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

To visualize and analyze the complex data associated with this "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, and to understand the spatial relationships of healthcare resources within Shock and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high and low access to care, pinpoint the locations of standout practices, and analyze the distribution of mental health resources. They allow for a deeper understanding of the landscape of breast cancer care in this region.