26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.17 percent of the residents in 26764 has some form of health insurance. 52.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.77 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 26764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,058 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26764. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 945 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 60 health care providers accessible to residents in 26764, Terra Alta, West Virginia.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Terra Alta, WV (ZIP Code 26764)

Analyzing the prostate cancer care landscape within Terra Alta, West Virginia (ZIP code 26764) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the available medical professionals but also the supporting infrastructure crucial for comprehensive patient management. This analysis aims to provide a Prostate Cancer Score, albeit an estimated one due to data limitations, by examining key aspects of care delivery.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in the accessibility of qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Terra Alta, a rural community, faces inherent challenges regarding physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation, impacting patient outcomes. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. A preliminary assessment suggests a potential shortage of PCPs in the area, which could be a significant factor negatively affecting the Prostate Cancer Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and capabilities of the available PCPs are critical. Do they actively screen for prostate cancer, utilizing the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exams (DREs)? Do they have established referral pathways to urologists for further evaluation and treatment? The Prostate Cancer Score considers the proactive nature of the primary care network. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care and early detection, including patient education about risk factors and screening guidelines, will score higher.

Specialist availability is another crucial component. The presence of board-certified urologists within a reasonable travel distance is essential for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Access to specialists impacts the speed and quality of care. The Prostate Cancer Score will assess the proximity of urology practices, the availability of appointments, and the range of services offered, including diagnostic imaging (MRI, ultrasound), surgical options (robotic-assisted prostatectomy, open prostatectomy), and radiation therapy.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies will receive a higher score. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with healthcare providers.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Prostate Cancer Score will evaluate the availability of mental health resources in Terra Alta, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either directly or through referrals, will be viewed favorably.

Standout practices within the region deserve recognition. Identifying practices that excel in prostate cancer care requires a deep dive into their clinical practices, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based guidelines, the implementation of shared decision-making processes, and the availability of patient navigation services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and positive outcomes will be highlighted.

The infrastructure supporting cancer care extends beyond medical professionals. Access to diagnostic facilities, such as imaging centers equipped with advanced technology, is critical for accurate diagnosis and staging. The Prostate Cancer Score will factor in the availability of these resources, including the proximity of facilities offering MRI, CT scans, and bone scans.

The financial burden of cancer care can be significant. The Prostate Cancer Score will consider the availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and resources to help patients navigate the healthcare system. Practices that provide financial counseling and support will be recognized.

Education and awareness play a vital role in early detection and improved outcomes. The Prostate Cancer Score will evaluate the efforts of healthcare providers to educate the community about prostate cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and educational initiatives will receive a higher score.

Based on the available information and considering the limitations of data accessibility, we can estimate a preliminary Prostate Cancer Score for Terra Alta, WV (26764). The score will likely be impacted by the rural nature of the area, which may present challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, and access to advanced technologies. The score will be positively influenced by practices that embrace telemedicine, integrate mental health services, and prioritize patient-centered care.

To obtain a more precise and comprehensive Prostate Cancer Score, a detailed analysis of specific healthcare providers and facilities within the ZIP code is needed. This would involve gathering data on physician credentials, practice characteristics, and patient outcomes. Furthermore, assessing the availability of support services and community resources is essential.

For healthcare professionals, patients, and researchers seeking to visualize and analyze healthcare data in Terra Alta and beyond, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide powerful visualization tools to analyze geographic data, identify healthcare disparities, and optimize resource allocation.