25009, Ashford, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 25009, Ashford, West Virginia is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25009 has some form of health insurance. 72.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.31 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 25009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 384 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 182 health care providers accessible to residents in 25009, Ashford, West Virginia.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, and access to primary care, are crucial components of men’s health. This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare within ZIP Code 25009, Ashford, West Virginia, focusing on prostate cancer care and primary care availability. It examines physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score.”

Analyzing the healthcare ecosystem in a specific ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach. The first step is to assess the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the West Virginia Board of Medicine, coupled with information from healthcare directories, can provide a preliminary understanding of this ratio within 25009. However, this data often presents a broad picture and doesn't always account for specialization, such as urology, which is particularly relevant to prostate cancer care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is critical. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer insights into patient experiences, including satisfaction with communication, diagnosis, and treatment. Furthermore, examining the credentials and affiliations of physicians is essential. Board certification in urology, for example, is a strong indicator of expertise in prostate cancer care. Affiliations with reputable hospitals and cancer centers can also signify access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within 25009 is a significant factor in the “Prostate Cancer Score.” Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a considerable barrier in Ashford. The availability of telehealth appointments, virtual consultations, and remote monitoring services can improve access to care and facilitate early detection and management of prostate cancer. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration requires examining the services offered by local practices and hospitals, as well as the availability of necessary technology and internet access within the community.

The link between physical and mental health is undeniable, especially for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within 25009 is an essential component of a comprehensive “Prostate Cancer Score.” This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating the availability of counseling services, and determining the presence of support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families.

Primary care availability is inextricably linked to prostate cancer care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, conducting routine screenings and referring patients to specialists when necessary. A strong primary care infrastructure, characterized by a sufficient number of primary care physicians and accessible clinics, is crucial for early detection and timely intervention. Evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the number of primary care physicians in the area, the accessibility of clinics, and the ability of patients to obtain timely appointments.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" for 25009 must consider the specifics of each practice. For example, one practice might stand out due to its urologist's board certification, positive patient reviews, and integration of telemedicine for follow-up appointments. Another might excel in its collaboration with a local cancer center, providing access to advanced treatment options. Conversely, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio and limited telemedicine capabilities might receive a lower score.

The assessment should also factor in the community's socioeconomic characteristics. Factors like poverty rates, insurance coverage, and educational attainment can impact access to care. A community with a higher percentage of uninsured individuals, for example, may face greater barriers to accessing screening and treatment.

The score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment, evolving as healthcare providers adapt and innovate. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25009, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health. It also serves as a tool for healthcare providers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made.

This analysis is a starting point. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25009, we encourage you to explore the visual data and insights available through CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps and visualizations that can help you explore physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and population demographics. This data can be invaluable in assessing the accessibility of care and identifying areas where improvements are needed.