26591, Worthington, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 65.94 percent of the residents in 26591 has some form of health insurance. 32.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.60 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 26591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 652 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 326 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 828 health care providers accessible to residents in 26591, Worthington, West Virginia.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Worthington, WV (ZIP Code 26591)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of prostate cancer care within Worthington, West Virginia (ZIP code 26591), evaluating the availability and quality of services, with a particular focus on primary care access. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, aiding individuals in making informed decisions about their health.

The primary care foundation is crucial. Early detection and management of prostate cancer often begin with a primary care physician (PCP). In Worthington, the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code is a key indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area presents potential challenges. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams. This is a crucial factor in the 'Prostate Cancer Score' assessment.

The availability of specialists, specifically urologists, is another critical element. While primary care physicians can initiate screenings and provide initial guidance, the expertise of a urologist is essential for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The proximity of specialists to Worthington impacts the overall score. Travel time to access a urologist influences the patient experience and can affect the timely initiation of treatment. The presence of a well-established referral network between primary care physicians and urologists is also a positive factor.

Standout practices within and around Worthington are identified based on several criteria. These include the adoption of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the utilization of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive prostate cancer care, including early detection, minimally invasive surgical options (if available), and access to clinical trials, would receive higher scores. The level of integration with local hospitals and cancer centers also plays a significant role.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without requiring extensive travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, would enhance their 'Prostate Cancer Score'. This is especially important for patients managing chronic conditions or those needing frequent follow-up appointments.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in cancer care, but are vital. A prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is an essential component of comprehensive care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their treatment plans, either directly or through referrals, are recognized in the score.

The quality of primary care availability in Worthington impacts the overall score. This includes factors such as appointment availability, the range of services offered (including preventative care), and the patient-centeredness of the care provided. Practices that prioritize patient education, shared decision-making, and proactive screening programs contribute positively to the score. The ability of primary care physicians to effectively communicate with specialists and coordinate care is also critical.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' is not simply a numerical ranking. It is a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support patients through all stages of prostate cancer, from early detection to survivorship. The score considers the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the patient experience. The assessment also considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system.

The impact of the local hospital system is another factor. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a dedicated oncology department, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy services, improves the score. Proximity to a comprehensive cancer center that offers advanced treatment options and clinical trials is also a significant advantage. The integration of the local hospital system with the primary care practices and specialist networks is crucial for seamless care coordination.

The community’s awareness of prostate cancer is also considered. The availability of educational resources, such as community health events and educational materials, increases awareness and encourages early detection. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and provide patients with access to information about prostate cancer risk factors and screening guidelines receive higher scores.

The specific technologies available within the local healthcare system are also considered. The use of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, for diagnosis and staging, enhances the score. The availability of minimally invasive surgical options, such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy, and the use of targeted therapies, such as hormone therapy and chemotherapy, are also positive factors.

The 'Prostate Cancer Score' for Worthington is not static. It evolves as the healthcare landscape changes. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and improvements in the quality of care. The score is intended to be a dynamic tool, helping individuals make informed decisions about their health and encouraging healthcare providers to continually strive for excellence.

The analysis is intended to be a starting point for further research. Individuals are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers and conduct their own research to make informed decisions about their health. The score is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Worthington and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offers a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare resources available in your area.