26260, Davis, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26260, Davis, West Virginia is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 26260 has some form of health insurance. 44.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.02 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 26260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 88 health care providers accessible to residents in 26260, Davis, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Davis, WV (ZIP Code 26260)

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Davis, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26260), focusing on prostate cancer care and primary care availability. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the resources available to men in this community, considering factors that impact early detection, treatment, and overall well-being. This analysis considers the limitations of data availability in a rural setting and focuses on the practical realities of accessing care.

The cornerstone of effective prostate cancer management is the accessibility of quality primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are crucial for early screening, risk assessment, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio in Davis is a critical indicator. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to ascertain the current PCP-to-population ratio in Tucker County, where Davis is located. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and comprehensive preventative care, including prostate cancer screenings.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community is important. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single clinic or hospital, or are there multiple practices offering diverse options? The presence of a federally qualified health center (FQHC) could significantly improve access for underserved populations, providing comprehensive services, including preventative care and potentially, subsidized screenings. Analyzing the location of primary care practices relative to the population distribution within Davis will reveal potential disparities in access.

Specialist availability, particularly urologists, is a critical factor in prostate cancer care. While Davis may not have a resident urologist, the proximity to larger medical centers in Morgantown or Elkins becomes paramount. Assessing the travel time and ease of access to these specialists is essential. The presence of established referral networks between local PCPs and urologists in nearby cities is a positive indicator. These networks facilitate streamlined patient care and ensure that individuals receive timely consultations and treatment.

The quality of care extends beyond the availability of physicians. The adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Urological Association (AUA), is a key consideration. Examining the practices' adherence to these guidelines, including the frequency of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams (DREs), can provide insights into the quality of preventative care. This information may be accessible through practice websites or through publicly available quality metrics, if available.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers in rural areas, improving access to specialists and follow-up care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists serving the Davis area is a significant factor. Examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can reveal the extent to which technology is being used to enhance patient care. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing educational resources.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a man's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. The presence of mental health services within primary care practices or through partnerships with local mental health providers is a positive indicator. Investigating the availability of support groups specifically for men with prostate cancer can provide valuable insights into the community's support network.

Standout practices in the Davis area should be identified based on their commitment to comprehensive care. Practices that demonstrate a strong focus on preventative care, patient education, and the integration of mental health services deserve recognition. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and prioritize patient-centered care are also noteworthy. This assessment requires a review of practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially, interviews with healthcare providers.

The overall 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Davis, WV, is heavily influenced by the challenges of rural healthcare. The availability of primary care, the proximity to specialists, and the adoption of telemedicine are all crucial factors. The presence of mental health resources and the adherence to evidence-based screening guidelines also contribute to the overall score. The score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in the community.

This analysis acknowledges the limitations of relying on publicly available data in a rural setting. The findings are based on the best available information and should be considered a starting point for further investigation. Individuals seeking care should always consult with their primary care physician and specialists to develop a personalized treatment plan.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Davis, West Virginia, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, population demographics, and other relevant data.