24714, Beeson, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24714, Beeson, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24714 has some form of health insurance. 74.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.92 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 24714 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24714. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 126 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,402 health care providers accessible to residents in 24714, Beeson, West Virginia.

This analysis evaluates the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in the ZIP code 24714 area, focusing on the town of Beeson, West Virginia. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting key strengths and weaknesses related to early detection, treatment, and patient support for lung cancer. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 24714, a predominantly rural area, is a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, particularly specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to specialized care. Data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources would be crucial to ascertain the precise ratio. If the ratio is unfavorable, it will negatively impact the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Primary care availability in Beeson is also a key determinant. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system. They are the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, and they play a vital role in early detection through screening and referrals. The availability of PCPs, their willingness to screen for lung cancer (especially among high-risk individuals), and their ability to navigate the referral process are all essential components of a robust lung cancer care system. A shortage of PCPs or limited access to them will significantly hinder the effectiveness of the entire system.

Standout practices in the area would be those that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive care. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and offer multidisciplinary treatment approaches. These practices might have a dedicated oncology team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. Additionally, practices that offer patient navigation services, helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, would be highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with oncologists, remote monitoring, and support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer these services will receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area is a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they are critical for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans will be viewed favorably. The availability of support groups and other peer support resources also contributes to a better patient experience.

The Lung Cancer Score will be calculated based on the following weighted criteria: Physician-to-patient ratio (30%), primary care availability (25%), standout practices (20%), telemedicine adoption (15%), and mental health resources (10%). Each criterion will be assessed based on publicly available data, practice websites, and potentially, interviews with healthcare providers and patients (if feasible and ethical). The score will be presented on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the highest quality of care.

To determine the physician-to-patient ratio, data from the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau would be analyzed. This will provide an estimate of the number of physicians per 1,000 residents in the 24714 ZIP code.

Primary care availability will be assessed by identifying the number of PCPs practicing in the area and evaluating their accessibility (e.g., appointment wait times, insurance acceptance). This information can often be found on practice websites or through online directories.

Standout practices will be identified by reviewing practice websites, assessing their commitment to lung cancer screening, and examining their treatment protocols. The presence of a multidisciplinary team, patient navigation services, and participation in clinical trials will be considered.

Telemedicine adoption will be evaluated by determining which practices offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and support groups. Information on these services can be found on practice websites or through direct inquiries.

Mental health resources will be assessed by identifying the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and other mental health services. This information can be obtained from practice websites, local health organizations, and online directories.

The final Lung Cancer Score will be a composite of these factors, reflecting the overall quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in the 24714 area. The score is intended to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape and should not be considered a definitive ranking of individual practices.

The healthcare landscape in 24714, particularly in Beeson, presents both challenges and opportunities. The rural setting likely poses difficulties in physician recruitment and access to specialized care. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources could mitigate some of these challenges. Practices that prioritize early detection, patient-centered care, and comprehensive support services will likely achieve higher scores.

This analysis underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to lung cancer care, involving primary care physicians, specialists, and support services. Improving access to care, promoting early detection, and providing comprehensive support are essential for improving patient outcomes.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in 24714, including physician locations, practice details, and access to care information, explore the CartoChrome maps. They provide a dynamic and user-friendly way to understand the healthcare resources available in your area.