26147, Grantsville, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 26147 has some form of health insurance. 57.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.48 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 26147 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26147. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 484 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 81 health care providers accessible to residents in 26147, Grantsville, West Virginia.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment access, particularly in rural areas, demands a nuanced understanding of local healthcare resources. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of prostate cancer care for residents of Grantsville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26147), considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support.

Grantsville, a small town in Calhoun County, faces unique healthcare challenges. The population density is low, and the county struggles with economic hardship, factors that can significantly impact access to specialized medical care. This analysis aims to provide a practical assessment of the resources available to men in this area concerned about prostate health.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare access. In Calhoun County, the number of primary care physicians is likely limited, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. The availability of urologists, specialists in treating prostate cancer, is even more critical. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Parkersburg or Charleston for specialized consultations, diagnostic procedures (such as biopsies), and advanced treatments like radiation therapy or surgery. This travel burden can be a significant barrier to timely care, especially for elderly patients or those with limited transportation options.

Identifying standout practices in Grantsville or the surrounding areas requires careful consideration. While specific practice names are unavailable for this analysis, the quality of care can be assessed by examining factors such as the training and experience of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment (e.g., MRI machines), and the practice's affiliation with larger healthcare systems. Practices connected to hospitals or larger networks are often better equipped to offer a broader range of services and access to specialists. Patient reviews and ratings, if available, provide insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience of care.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the geographic limitations of rural healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, is crucial in Grantsville. Telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as devices that track vital signs, can further enhance patient care and allow for early detection of potential complications. The success of telemedicine depends on factors such as internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the willingness of physicians to embrace virtual care.

The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties throughout the diagnostic and treatment process. Access to counselors, therapists, and support groups can provide essential support and help patients cope with the psychological impact of the disease. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices or the availability of referrals to mental health professionals in the community is essential.

Access to prostate cancer screening and treatment in Grantsville, WV (ZIP Code 26147) is likely constrained by the limited number of healthcare providers, the need for travel to access specialized care, and the potential lack of telemedicine infrastructure. The lack of access to mental health resources may also add to the burden on patients.

The need for improved access to care is evident. Efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians and specialists, including urologists, are essential. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, improving internet access, and promoting patient education about prostate cancer screening and treatment options are also critical. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is needed to address these challenges.

The analysis underscores the importance of a proactive approach to prostate cancer care in Grantsville. Men should be encouraged to discuss their risk factors with their primary care physicians and undergo regular screenings as recommended by their healthcare providers. Education about prostate cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options, is crucial.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Staying informed about local healthcare resources is essential for making informed decisions about your health.

For a comprehensive, interactive view of healthcare resources in Grantsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital affiliations, and access to mental health services, explore the CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide visual representations of healthcare data, allowing you to identify the nearest providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your health.