24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24845 has some form of health insurance. 81.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.48 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 24845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 66 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: 24845 and Ikes Fork

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 24845, focusing on the availability and quality of services, particularly as they relate to primary care access in the nearby community of Ikes Fork. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in the overall prostate cancer care experience. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to men in this area, considering the challenges of rural healthcare access.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in timely diagnosis and ongoing care. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure capable of early detection, referral, and coordination of specialized services. In the context of 24845 and the surrounding areas, including Ikes Fork, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the prostate cancer care pathway.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In rural communities like those surrounding Ikes Fork, a shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Ideally, the ratio should be favorable, allowing each physician to provide adequate attention to their patients. However, in many rural settings, the ratio is often skewed, meaning that each physician is responsible for a larger patient population. This can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. We must consider this when evaluating the overall prostate cancer care environment.

Within ZIP code 24845, the specific number of practicing PCPs and their patient loads are essential data points. Publicly available resources, such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) data, can provide insights into the physician supply in this area. Furthermore, local hospital systems and clinics often publish information about their medical staff. Analyzing this data allows for a more accurate assessment of the availability of primary care, a vital element in prostate cancer screening and initial management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the availability of services like prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams, and the ability to provide timely referrals to urologists and oncologists. The practices that excel in these areas are essential in providing a strong foundation for prostate cancer care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the physician's experience, the practice's commitment to preventive care, and the availability of advanced diagnostic tools. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Practices that actively promote early detection and offer comprehensive care are likely to be at the forefront of prostate cancer management.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, especially in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can help bridge the geographical gap and connect patients with specialists. The adoption of telemedicine within 24845 and the surrounding communities is a crucial factor to consider.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires looking at the availability of telehealth services offered by local healthcare providers. This includes the use of video conferencing for consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the ability to share medical records electronically. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care, especially for patients who live far from medical centers.

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive care. Patients need support to cope with the stress, anxiety, and potential depression that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Evaluating mental health resources requires identifying the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, in the area. This includes assessing the capacity of local mental health clinics, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that prioritize mental health care are better equipped to provide holistic support to their patients.

The specific resources available in Ikes Fork are of particular importance. The proximity of Ikes Fork to 24845 and the potential for residents of Ikes Fork to seek care within the ZIP code make the availability of primary care and other services in that community a key factor in the overall assessment. This means evaluating the availability of PCPs, the presence of any local clinics, and the transportation options available to residents.

The challenges of rural healthcare access are significant. Limited transportation options, a shortage of specialists, and the potential for social isolation can all create barriers to care. Understanding these challenges is essential for developing strategies to improve prostate cancer care in the area.

Addressing these challenges may involve initiatives such as mobile screening units, telehealth programs, and community outreach efforts. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is crucial for creating a supportive environment for patients.

In summary, the prostate cancer care landscape in and around ZIP code 24845 is complex. It involves a careful consideration of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The specific resources available in Ikes Fork, including the availability of primary care, are particularly important.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area, including the locations of medical facilities, physician availability, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide a detailed overview of the resources available, allowing for a more informed assessment of the prostate cancer care environment.