26804, Circleville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26804, Circleville, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 26804 has some form of health insurance. 73.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.77 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 26804 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 129 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26804. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26804, Circleville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Circleville, WV (ZIP Code 26804)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within Circleville, West Virginia (ZIP code 26804), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and the overall landscape for patients navigating diagnosis, treatment, and support. The analysis considers factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, offering insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, crucial for screening, early detection, and initial referrals. In Circleville, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs, can improve access and promote proactive healthcare. Assessing this ratio is fundamental to understanding the healthcare infrastructure's capacity to address breast cancer concerns.

The presence of standout primary care practices is another significant element. Practices that prioritize preventative care, employ advanced screening technologies, and foster strong patient-physician relationships often demonstrate better patient outcomes. Evaluating practices based on their commitment to these aspects is essential. This includes considering their patient education programs, their use of evidence-based guidelines, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists. The practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer screening and early intervention deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Circleville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without extensive travel. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), directly impacts the accessibility of care. Evaluating the technology infrastructure, the availability of telehealth platforms, and the training provided to both physicians and patients is vital.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for patients facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease can be significant, and access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health services can greatly improve a patient's quality of life. Assessing the availability of these resources, including their proximity to primary care practices and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, is essential.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within the 26804 ZIP code and comparing it to the local population. This data can be obtained from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau. A low ratio might indicate a shortage of PCPs, potentially leading to challenges in accessing timely care. Conversely, a higher ratio would suggest a more accessible healthcare environment.

Identifying standout practices involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes reviewing patient satisfaction surveys, analyzing practice websites for information on screening protocols and preventative care programs, and assessing the availability of on-site mammography services. Practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness and offer comprehensive care, including patient education and support services, should be highlighted.

Evaluating telemedicine adoption necessitates examining the technological infrastructure of local practices. Are they equipped with secure video conferencing platforms? Do they offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups? Do they have patient portals that allow for secure communication and access to medical records? The extent of telemedicine integration can significantly impact patient convenience and access to care.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and counseling services. Is there a readily accessible network of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology care? Are these services integrated into the overall care plan, or are patients left to navigate these resources independently? The degree of integration between medical and mental health services is a critical factor in patient well-being.

The healthcare landscape in Circleville, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges. Limited resources, geographical isolation, and a potentially aging population can impact access to care. However, there are opportunities for improvement. Increased telemedicine adoption, collaborative partnerships between practices, and the integration of mental health services can enhance patient outcomes.

The evaluation of these factors provides a comprehensive ‘Breast Cancer Score’ analysis for Circleville. This score reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care within the community. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This information is vital for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, stakeholders can work collaboratively to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and promote a healthier community. This analysis serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve breast cancer care in Circleville.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Circleville, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist providers, and support services, explore the detailed mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.