26851, Wardensville, West Virginia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 26851, Wardensville, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.12 percent of the residents in 26851 has some form of health insurance. 39.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.56 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 26851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26851. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 489 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 42 health care providers accessible to residents in 26851, Wardensville, West Virginia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Wardensville, WV (ZIP Code 26851)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 26851 (Wardensville, West Virginia), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, resource availability, and overall healthcare infrastructure. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing support for patients in this rural community.

The foundation of any effective breast cancer care pathway lies in accessible primary care. In Wardensville, the evaluation begins with analyzing PCP availability. Data on physician-to-patient ratios is critical. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely screenings and follow-up care. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to calculate this ratio. Furthermore, the analysis considers the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Are physicians concentrated in a single location, making access difficult for residents in more remote areas?

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. The analysis considers the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Do PCPs actively encourage mammograms for eligible patients? Are they proactive in discussing family history and risk factors? Data on these practices can be gathered through surveys, interviews with local healthcare providers, and reviews of patient records (while adhering to HIPAA regulations).

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect, particularly in rural communities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists, receive counseling, and monitor their health remotely. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs and specialists in the area. Are virtual consultations offered? Do patients have access to remote monitoring tools? The success of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access, digital literacy among patients, and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. This involves recognizing healthcare providers who demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. The analysis will consider factors like patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of patient navigation programs, and the availability of specialized services like genetic counseling. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as free screening events or educational seminars, will also be highlighted.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is essential for breast cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. Are these resources readily accessible? Do they accept insurance? Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of support groups and other peer-to-peer support programs.

The availability of diagnostic and treatment facilities within a reasonable distance is also crucial. The analysis will assess the proximity of hospitals, imaging centers, and oncology clinics. Are there facilities that offer mammograms, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures? Are there oncologists and surgeons available to provide treatment? The analysis will also consider the availability of radiation therapy and chemotherapy services.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient navigation programs. These programs help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, providing assistance with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The analysis will consider the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients struggle to afford the costs of care. The analysis will assess the availability of financial assistance programs, such as grants, scholarships, and payment plans.

The analysis will also consider the availability of transportation services. Many patients may not have access to transportation, which can make it difficult to attend appointments and receive treatment. The analysis will assess the availability of transportation services, such as ride-sharing programs and volunteer drivers.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in Wardensville. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. The analysis will also identify areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis will conclude with recommendations for improving breast cancer care in Wardensville. These recommendations may include increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices, and increasing the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis will emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of survival. The analysis will also emphasize the importance of ongoing support for patients. Breast cancer is a challenging disease, and patients need support from their healthcare providers, their families, and their communities.

The analysis will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The analysis will be a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health on breast cancer outcomes. Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These conditions can have a significant impact on health outcomes.

To further visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in Wardensville and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, access to care, and potential disparities, explore interactive mapping tools. These maps can help identify areas with limited access to care and inform strategies to improve breast cancer outcomes.

**For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wardensville, WV, and to explore potential access challenges, visit CartoChrome maps.**