26405, Moatsville, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.75 percent of the residents in 26405 has some form of health insurance. 68.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 26405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 272 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26405. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 333 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 143 health care providers accessible to residents in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26405 & Primary Care in Moatsville

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care access in and around Moatsville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26405) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors from physician availability to mental health support, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare environment for residents. The score, although not a numerical value, will be presented through a ranking system, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the defined area.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Moatsville, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas: physician shortages and geographical limitations. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. Ideally, a ratio of 1:1,000 or better is desirable, indicating sufficient access. However, in rural settings, this ratio often leans towards a higher number, potentially exceeding 1:2,000 or even higher. This directly impacts access to preventative care, including early prostate cancer screenings, which are critical for successful treatment outcomes.

Primary care availability directly affects prostate cancer detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial assessments, ordering prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, and making referrals to urologists. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially more advanced stages of cancer at the time of treatment. The ability to see a PCP promptly is therefore crucial.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screenings, and foster strong patient-physician relationships are more likely to catch prostate cancer early. Evaluating the practices in the area requires looking beyond the surface. Are practices patient-centered, offering extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they utilize electronic health records effectively for tracking patient history and coordinating care? Do they have a strong focus on patient education regarding prostate health and cancer risks?

Specialized care, particularly urology, is another key component of the prostate cancer care landscape. The presence of board-certified urologists within a reasonable driving distance is essential. The proximity to larger medical centers, like those in Morgantown or Clarksburg, is a significant factor. These centers often house specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technology and robotic surgery capabilities, which are crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The availability of these resources significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine can extend their reach, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The level of telemedicine adoption within the practices in and around Moatsville will be a significant factor in our assessment.

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally challenging experiences. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral networks to mental health professionals will receive higher marks. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in cancer patients.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" ranking for doctors in ZIP Code 26405 and primary care availability in Moatsville will be determined by evaluating the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A lower ratio indicates better access.
* **Primary Care Quality:** Focus on preventative care, patient-centeredness, and effective use of technology.
* **Urology Specialist Availability:** Proximity to board-certified urologists and access to advanced treatment options.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** The extent to which practices utilize telemedicine for patient consultations and follow-up care.
* **Mental Health Resources:** Availability of integrated mental health services or referral networks.

Based on the limited information, it is likely that Moatsville, being a rural community, will face challenges in several areas. The physician-to-patient ratio might be unfavorable. The availability of urologists within close proximity could be limited, necessitating travel to larger cities. Telemedicine adoption may vary across practices. The presence of mental health resources may be limited, requiring patients to seek care outside of their immediate community.

Therefore, practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient care, leverage technology effectively, and prioritize access to specialized care will likely score higher. The practices that integrate mental health resources into their care models will also receive high marks. This evaluation is a snapshot, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The actual score would depend on a detailed investigation of the practices and resources available within the specified area.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Moatsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide an interactive and data-rich visualization of the healthcare resources available in your area.