26847, Petersburg, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26847, Petersburg, West Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.16 percent of the residents in 26847 has some form of health insurance. 51.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.72 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 26847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,115 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 176 health care providers accessible to residents in 26847, Petersburg, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Petersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26847)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Petersburg, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26847), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician resources, and ancillary services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in the local healthcare ecosystem. This assessment considers factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support for individuals facing breast cancer.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, crucial for preventative screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. In Petersburg, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening rates, and potentially, later-stage diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more proactive care. Researching the specific ratio within 26847 is paramount. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) would be the primary source for this data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This involves examining the practices of local PCPs. Are they actively promoting breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they have established systems for reminding patients about appointments and follow-ups? Are they well-versed in the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network? This assessment requires a combination of data gathering. Reviewing online patient reviews, contacting local practices directly, and perhaps even conducting a small-scale survey of residents could provide valuable insights.

Another critical factor is the presence of specialist physicians. While PCPs are vital for screening, access to oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons is essential for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of these specialists to Petersburg is a key consideration. Does the local hospital or clinic system have these specialists on staff, or do patients need to travel significant distances for these services? Travel time can significantly impact the patient experience, potentially delaying care and increasing stress. Assessing the travel time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center or specialist network is critical.

Telemedicine adoption presents another area for evaluation. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Petersburg. This includes virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and online support groups. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine technologies should be assessed. Are they offering virtual appointments? Do they utilize patient portals for communication and information sharing? The adoption of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is essential. Are there mental health services available locally? Do local practices have established referral pathways for patients needing mental health support? Assessing the availability of mental health resources is an integral part of the Breast Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the community warrant recognition. Identifying practices that excel in providing breast cancer care can serve as models for others. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, patient education, and comprehensive support services. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer patient navigators, or have implemented innovative approaches to care delivery should be highlighted. This could involve identifying clinics with robust patient education materials, dedicated patient navigators, or those actively participating in community outreach programs.

The quality of imaging services is another crucial element. The availability of high-quality mammography equipment and experienced radiologists is essential for accurate diagnosis. Assessing the equipment available at local hospitals and clinics is important. Are they equipped with the latest digital mammography technology? Do they offer 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)? Equally important is the expertise of the radiologists interpreting the images. Are they board-certified and experienced in breast imaging?

The Breast Cancer Score also needs to consider the availability of support services. This includes support groups, patient navigators, and resources for financial assistance. Breast cancer patients often benefit from connecting with others who have shared experiences. The presence of local support groups, either in-person or online, can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. Patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the healthcare system and access resources, are also a valuable asset. Additionally, the availability of financial assistance programs can help alleviate the financial burden associated with cancer treatment.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Petersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26847) requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a thorough evaluation of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of imaging services. The final Breast Cancer Score should reflect a comprehensive assessment of these factors, identifying both strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers, fostering improvements in breast cancer care within the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Petersburg, including the location of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Utilize this tool to visualize the data and gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.