26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 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 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26104)

This analysis delves into the prostate cancer care landscape within Parkersburg, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26104), evaluating the availability and quality of resources for men facing this significant health concern. The assessment considers factors crucial to a positive patient experience, from physician accessibility to mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area. This score is not a single numerical value, but rather a holistic evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare system.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care lies in early detection and consistent monitoring. This necessitates readily available primary care physicians (PCPs) who can initiate screenings, provide referrals to specialists, and offer ongoing support. Parkersburg's primary care availability is a critical component of the overall score. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a starting point. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs relative to the population, could lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times for crucial screenings, and potentially, a less proactive approach to patient care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the US Census Bureau, coupled with information from local hospital systems and insurance providers, is essential to determine this ratio accurately.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are PCPs in the area actively promoting prostate cancer screening guidelines, such as the American Cancer Society recommendations? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists and oncologists specializing in prostate cancer? Do they offer patient education materials and resources? These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of care. The analysis will investigate the presence of these practices within the primary care network.

The presence of specialist care is also paramount. Urologists and oncologists with expertise in prostate cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management are essential. The analysis will identify the number of urologists and oncologists practicing within ZIP Code 26104 and the surrounding areas. Further, it will evaluate their qualifications, including board certifications, years of experience, and affiliations with reputable medical institutions. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, and treatment options, including minimally invasive surgical techniques, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, will be assessed. The presence of clinical trials and research opportunities will also be considered, as they offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to consult with physicians remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and psychosocial support, can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The analysis will investigate the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by PCPs, urologists, and oncologists in the Parkersburg area. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with healthcare providers.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in cancer care, but they are vital to a patient's overall well-being. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, specifically tailored to the needs of men with prostate cancer. This includes assessing the accessibility of these services, their integration with the cancer care team, and the availability of financial assistance for mental health treatment.

Identifying standout practices within the area is an important aspect of the analysis. This involves recognizing healthcare providers and facilities that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. This might include practices with a strong track record of early detection, a commitment to patient education, a focus on patient-centered care, and a dedication to utilizing the latest technologies and treatment modalities. The analysis will consider factors such as patient satisfaction scores, physician ratings, and the implementation of best practices in prostate cancer management.

The assessment will also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs. These resources can provide valuable support and information to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of prostate cancer care. The analysis will identify these resources and evaluate their accessibility and effectiveness.

The final "Prostate Cancer Score" for Parkersburg (ZIP Code 26104) will reflect the overall quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care in the area. This score will be based on a comprehensive evaluation of all the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices and community resources. This analysis aims to provide a valuable resource for men in Parkersburg, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the best possible care for prostate cancer.

To visualize and explore the prostate cancer care landscape in Parkersburg and other regions, consider utilizing the power of spatial data and mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to understand the distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access, and gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare system.