26810, Lost City, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.01 percent of the residents in 26810 has some form of health insurance. 36.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.52 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 26810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 97 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26810 and Primary Care Availability in Lost City**

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to the availability and quality of healthcare services. This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26810, focusing on the physicians practicing there, and assesses the primary care resources available in Lost City, a hypothetical locale, considering factors crucial to a patient's journey. The analysis constructs a “Breast Cancer Score,” a composite metric reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

ZIP code 26810, a hypothetical area, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The Breast Cancer Score for this area begins with evaluating the number of physicians specializing in breast cancer care. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists directly involved in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A low ratio, indicating fewer specialists per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access and a more streamlined care process. The analysis also considers the breadth of services offered within the ZIP code. Does the area have comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI? Are there surgical options, including lumpectomy and mastectomy, readily available? The presence of radiation therapy facilities is another vital component, as is access to chemotherapy and other systemic treatments.

Standout practices within 26810 would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes practices that embrace multidisciplinary approaches, where oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing resources and support to help patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects, are highly valued. The integration of clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies, is another significant factor. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography and minimally invasive surgical techniques, can enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The Breast Cancer Score considers the extent to which practices within 26810 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from specialists or have mobility limitations. It can also facilitate communication between patients and their care teams, allowing for more frequent check-ins and timely intervention. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to score higher on the Breast Cancer Score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The emotional and psychological well-being of breast cancer patients is paramount. The Breast Cancer Score assesses the availability of mental health resources within 26810. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The ability to address the emotional challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship is crucial for patient well-being. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or readily refer patients to mental health professionals score higher in this area. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also a significant factor, providing patients with a sense of community and shared experience.

Shifting focus to primary care availability in Lost City, a hypothetical location, the Breast Cancer Score evaluates the strength of the foundation upon which breast cancer care is built. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. The analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio in Lost City, assessing whether there are enough PCPs to meet the needs of the population. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed screenings, missed diagnoses, and a less proactive approach to preventive care.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Lost City is also important. Are practices evenly distributed throughout the area, or are there pockets of underserved communities with limited access to care? The Breast Cancer Score considers the proximity of primary care practices to residents, particularly those in rural or underserved areas. The ability to access primary care services easily is essential for early detection and timely referral to specialists.

The services offered by primary care practices are another key consideration. Do PCPs offer breast cancer screening services, such as mammograms, or do they refer patients to specialists for these services? The availability of these services within the primary care setting can improve access and convenience for patients. The analysis also considers the PCPs’ knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. PCPs who are well-informed and proactive in their approach to breast cancer care are more likely to identify potential problems early and ensure timely referrals.

The integration of technology within primary care practices also impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Do practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient information, schedule appointments, and communicate with specialists? EHRs can improve care coordination and ensure that all members of the patient's care team have access to the necessary information. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs, for consultations and follow-up appointments, can further enhance access to care, particularly for patients in remote locations.

The Breast Cancer Score is a dynamic metric, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. Regular assessments are crucial to identify areas of strength and weakness and to inform efforts to improve patient care. The score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the commitment of healthcare providers and the community to provide the best possible care for those affected by breast cancer.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26810 and primary care availability in Lost City. To further explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, facility types, and patient demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you understand the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.