26814, Riverton, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.72 percent of the residents in 26814 has some form of health insurance. 67.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.79 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 26814 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26814. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia.

The analysis below provides a hypothetical "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for physicians in ZIP code 26814 (Riverton, West Virginia) and primary care availability in the same location. This score is based on a compilation of factors related to breast cancer care, including physician access, quality of care indicators, and supportive resources. It is important to remember that this is a simulated analysis and does not represent real-world data.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but rather a composite assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It evaluates several key areas, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized breast cancer care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals concerned about breast cancer.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental aspect of access to care. In ZIP code 26814, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and, more specifically, those with expertise in breast health, is critical. A higher ratio of patients per physician can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access. The analysis considers the number of PCPs, the number of oncologists, and the number of radiologists specializing in breast imaging within the specified ZIP code and its surrounding areas. This data is then compared to national averages to determine whether Riverton is comparatively underserved or well-resourced. The analysis also considers the age and demographics of the population, as older populations and those with higher-risk factors may require more intensive care.

Standout practices are identified by evaluating several factors. The analysis examines the availability of comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, including mammography, ultrasound, and MRI. Practices that offer advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), are given a higher score. Furthermore, the analysis considers the presence of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care. Practices that have established partnerships with local hospitals and cancer centers, ensuring seamless referrals and access to specialized treatments, are also favored. The analysis assesses the practice's commitment to patient education and support, including the availability of patient navigators, support groups, and educational materials.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Riverton. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel time, and provide convenient follow-up care. The analysis assesses the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are given a higher score, as they demonstrate a commitment to providing accessible and convenient care. The analysis considers the types of telemedicine services offered, the availability of technical support for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

Mental health resources are crucial for breast cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is essential. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The analysis considers the integration of mental health services into the breast cancer care pathway, such as referrals to therapists or counselors. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established partnerships with mental health providers are given a higher score. The analysis also assesses the availability of resources for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, such as mindfulness programs and support groups.

The evaluation also considers the availability of resources for financial assistance, as the cost of breast cancer treatment can be a significant burden for patients. The analysis assesses the availability of programs that help patients with the cost of treatment, such as grants, financial assistance programs, and payment plans. Practices that offer assistance with navigating the financial aspects of care are given a higher score. The analysis also considers the availability of resources for transportation and lodging, as patients may need to travel for treatment.

In this hypothetical scenario, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Riverton, WV, would likely be influenced by the rural nature of the area. This means that access to specialized care, such as oncologists and breast surgeons, may be limited compared to urban areas. The physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians might be a concern, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments. However, the score could be improved if local practices have embraced telemedicine to connect patients with specialists and if they have established partnerships with larger hospitals or cancer centers in nearby cities.

The analysis would also consider the availability of community resources, such as support groups and patient navigators, which can significantly improve the patient experience. The presence of mental health services is a crucial factor, as breast cancer patients often experience emotional distress. The score would be positively impacted by practices that offer mental health support or have established referral pathways. The analysis would also assess the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for transportation and lodging, which can help patients manage the financial burdens of treatment.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" would be a composite of all these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in Riverton. It would highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identify areas for improvement. This hypothetical analysis could serve as a starting point for patients seeking breast cancer care, helping them to make informed decisions about their healthcare options. It also highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to improve access to care, promote early detection, and provide comprehensive support for breast cancer patients in rural communities.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Riverton and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can provide a comprehensive view of the healthcare resources available in your area. This visual representation can help you understand the accessibility of care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.