26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 26739 has some form of health insurance. 49.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.05 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 26739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 218 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26739 & Mount Storm Primary Care

This analysis delves into the availability of breast cancer-related healthcare resources within ZIP code 26739, focusing specifically on the Mount Storm area and its primary care infrastructure. We aim to assess the landscape of care, from physician availability to the integration of supportive services, ultimately painting a picture of the community’s preparedness in addressing breast cancer concerns. The objective is to provide a nuanced understanding that informs both residents and healthcare providers about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The core of any breast cancer care assessment lies in the accessibility of qualified medical professionals. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. In the context of ZIP code 26739, this involves scrutinizing the number of primary care physicians, general surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists serving the population. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could signal potential challenges in accessing timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and potentially shorter wait times. The specific numbers are vital. For instance, if the area has a limited number of primary care physicians, this could create a bottleneck, delaying referrals to specialists like oncologists and radiologists. Furthermore, the distribution of these specialists within the ZIP code is important. Are they clustered in one location, or are they geographically dispersed, potentially impacting access for residents in more rural areas?

Primary care availability in Mount Storm is a critical element. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care. Their role in breast cancer detection is significant, as they can perform initial breast exams, order mammograms, and guide patients through the screening process. The presence of a robust primary care network, with readily available appointments and a commitment to preventative care, is a strong indicator of a community's proactive approach to breast cancer. Assessing the number of primary care practices in Mount Storm, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans are all essential factors in determining accessibility. The availability of evening and weekend appointments, as well as the ability to accommodate walk-in patients, further enhances accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 26739 requires looking beyond basic metrics. We need to examine the practices' commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines, their use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and their patient satisfaction scores. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including on-site mammography, biopsy capabilities, and access to genetic counseling, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, the presence of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, can significantly improve the patient experience. The integration of these services, along with the practice's ability to foster a supportive and empathetic environment, contributes to a more positive patient outcome.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents in rural areas like Mount Storm. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to attend appointments and receive follow-up care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments for both initial consultations and follow-up care, are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of online patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments, further enhances the telemedicine experience.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group support, and access to psychiatrists, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their breast cancer care programs, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, are demonstrating a holistic approach to patient care. The presence of support groups, offering a safe space for patients to share their experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges, is also invaluable.

Evaluating the availability of these resources requires a thorough investigation. This includes reviewing practice websites, contacting healthcare providers directly, and consulting with local community organizations. Public health data, such as the prevalence of breast cancer in the area and the utilization rates of screening services, can also provide valuable insights. Furthermore, feedback from patients, gathered through surveys and online reviews, can offer a valuable perspective on the quality of care and the patient experience.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care within ZIP code 26739, particularly in the Mount Storm area, requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, primary care infrastructure, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A strong healthcare ecosystem is characterized by a high physician-to-patient ratio, readily accessible primary care, standout practices with comprehensive services, a commitment to telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement. By focusing on these key factors, we can work towards ensuring that residents of ZIP code 26739 have access to the best possible breast cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26739, including the locations of healthcare providers, the distribution of resources, and potential areas of need, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed visualization of the data discussed in this analysis, providing a valuable tool for both healthcare providers and residents.