26802, Brandywine, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26802, Brandywine, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.58 percent of the residents in 26802 has some form of health insurance. 55.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.10 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 26802 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 72 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26802. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20 health care providers accessible to residents in 26802, Brandywine, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Brandywine, WV (ZIP Code 26802)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care availability and quality within the Brandywine, West Virginia (ZIP code 26802) area. We will evaluate the resources available to patients, focusing on physician access, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support, culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to inform patients and healthcare providers alike, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is access to qualified medical professionals. In ZIP code 26802, the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically regarding primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists such as oncologists and surgeons, is a critical factor. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards, must be meticulously reviewed to ascertain the current ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Furthermore, it is important to analyze the age and experience of the practicing physicians.

Primary care availability, a key aspect of this analysis, is crucial for early detection and ongoing management. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or needing routine screenings. The proximity of primary care practices to residential areas within Brandywine is a significant factor. Are practices easily accessible by public transportation, or are patients reliant on personal vehicles? The availability of evening and weekend appointments can also greatly impact access, particularly for working individuals.

Standout practices within the area are identified by their commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes the presence of certified breast imaging centers offering mammograms, ultrasounds, and potentially MRI scans. These centers should be accredited by organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR), ensuring adherence to rigorous quality standards. Practices that offer a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between PCPs, radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists, are particularly noteworthy. This collaborative model facilitates coordinated care and improves communication among the healthcare team.

The adoption of telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, and its presence in Brandywine's breast cancer care landscape is a key indicator. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of virtual consultations for breast cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatment planning can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Brandywine. Practices that utilize patient portals for communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical records are also demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health support is an integral part of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore critical. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients can provide invaluable emotional support and a sense of community.

The Breast Cancer Score for Brandywine, WV (ZIP code 26802) will be derived from a weighted assessment of the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in delivering high-quality breast cancer care. The score will be expressed on a scale, allowing for easy comparison and highlighting areas of strength and weakness. The specific methodology will involve gathering and analyzing data from various sources, including public health records, healthcare provider directories, and patient surveys. The data analysis will be conducted with a focus on accuracy and transparency.

The final score will be accompanied by specific recommendations for improvement. These recommendations will be tailored to the unique needs of the Brandywine community. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, recommendations might include strategies for attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals. If telemedicine adoption is limited, recommendations might focus on promoting the use of virtual consultations and patient portals. The recommendations will be actionable and designed to enhance the overall quality of breast cancer care in the area.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources and support programs. This includes the availability of financial assistance programs, transportation services for patients, and educational resources about breast cancer prevention and treatment. The involvement of local organizations, such as the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen, can significantly enhance the level of support available to patients.

The overall goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise picture of the breast cancer care landscape in Brandywine, WV. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, we can work towards improving access to care, enhancing the quality of services, and ultimately, improving patient outcomes. This analysis is not just a static assessment; it is a living document that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

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