26818, Fisher, West Virginia Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26818 has some form of health insurance. 54.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.95 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 26818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 595 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26818, Fisher, West Virginia.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26818 and Primary Care Availability in Fisher, WV**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding prostate cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 26818, encompassing the Fisher, West Virginia area, and evaluates the availability of primary care physicians, a critical component of early detection and ongoing management of this disease. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of prostate cancer care.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer management lies in accessible and competent primary care. Early detection, through regular screenings and patient education, significantly improves treatment outcomes. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts this, particularly in a rural area like Fisher. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create significant barriers to care, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating a more favorable physician distribution, can facilitate timely access to screening and management.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 26818 requires detailed data analysis, including the number of practicing PCPs and the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the West Virginia Board of Medicine, combined with insurance provider directories, can provide a reasonable estimate. However, these figures often represent averages and may not fully reflect the reality of access for specific populations, such as those with limited transportation or socioeconomic challenges.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive screening programs, and maintain strong referral networks with specialists are likely to be considered exemplary. Reviews from patients, available through online platforms and patient advocacy groups, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a crucial element in improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and mitigating geographical barriers. For prostate cancer, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent to which practices in ZIP Code 26818 utilize telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the technology infrastructure in place, will significantly impact the overall score.

Mental health resources play a vital role in prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing comprehensive care. The availability of these resources within the community, or through referral networks, is an important factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

Evaluating the availability of mental health services involves identifying local providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists. It also includes assessing the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Specific examples of practices within ZIP Code 26818 and the surrounding areas, if available, would be crucial to this analysis. Information on the number of PCPs, their specialties, and their affiliations with hospitals or specialist networks is important. Details on the types of screening offered, the use of electronic health records, and the availability of patient education materials would also be valuable.

Furthermore, analyzing the demographics of the patient population in ZIP Code 26818 is critical. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can significantly impact access to care and health outcomes. Addressing health disparities requires a thorough understanding of the specific needs of the community.

The prostate cancer score would be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. The score would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of prostate cancer care in the area. The score could be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access and quality of care.

The analysis would also consider the challenges faced by the healthcare system in rural areas. These include physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the need for improved infrastructure. The analysis would identify areas for improvement and recommend strategies to enhance prostate cancer care in the Fisher area.

The final score would be based on a weighted average of the various factors, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The weighting system would reflect the priorities of the analysis, such as the importance of early detection, access to care, and the availability of mental health resources.

This analysis provides a framework for assessing the quality of prostate cancer care in ZIP Code 26818. The specific details of the analysis, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, will determine the final score. This information can be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics in relation to prostate cancer risk factors, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing spatial data, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and disparities.