25118, Kimberly, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 25118, Kimberly, West Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.48 percent of the residents in 25118 has some form of health insurance. 38.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.95 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 25118 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 77 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25118. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 82 health care providers accessible to residents in 25118, Kimberly, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Kimberly, WV (ZIP Code 25118)

This analysis provides an assessment of healthcare resources relevant to prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment within the context of Kimberly, West Virginia (ZIP code 25118). We'll evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, specialist access, and related support services. The ultimate goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about prostate health.

The foundation of prostate cancer care begins with robust primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Kimberly, and the surrounding areas accessible to residents of ZIP code 25118, is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis. Researching the current PCP-to-patient ratio in this specific area is essential. Public health data, county health department reports, and resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into this crucial metric.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs actively promoting prostate cancer screening guidelines, such as regular prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs)? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and other specialists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing between providers can significantly improve care coordination. Investigating the adoption rate of EHRs and the level of interoperability among local practices is important.

Specialist access is another critical component. The availability of urologists within a reasonable travel distance is vital. The distance and ease of access to urology practices directly influence the speed with which patients can receive specialist consultations, diagnostic tests (like biopsies), and treatment options. Analyzing the number of urologists serving the area, their specialization (e.g., robotic surgery), and their hospital affiliations is essential. Assessing the proximity of these specialists to the residents of Kimberly is key to understanding their accessibility.

Telemedicine adoption is reshaping healthcare delivery, and its presence can significantly impact access to care, especially in rural areas. Does the local healthcare system offer telemedicine consultations with urologists or other specialists? Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate follow-up care. Researching which practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of access to these services is critical.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential part of comprehensive cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is a crucial factor in overall patient outcomes. Investigating the presence of mental health providers in the area, their specializations, and their willingness to work with cancer patients is important.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care can provide valuable guidance to patients. This could involve researching practices with a strong track record of early detection, advanced treatment options, patient satisfaction, and a commitment to patient education. Identifying practices that have earned accreditation from reputable organizations or that participate in clinical trials can further highlight their commitment to quality care.

Patient education and support services are also essential. Are there local resources that provide information about prostate cancer, treatment options, and support groups? The presence of such resources can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. Investigating the availability of educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators can greatly improve the patient experience.

In conclusion, evaluating the prostate cancer care landscape in Kimberly, WV (ZIP code 25118) requires a multi-faceted approach. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices provides a comprehensive understanding. This analysis should be viewed as a starting point for further investigation.

To gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in your area, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare access, helping you to visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.