24724, Freeman, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.67 percent of the residents in 24724 has some form of health insurance. 84.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.96 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 24724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 12 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,412 health care providers accessible to residents in 24724, Freeman, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24724 & Freeman Primary Care

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 24724 and the broader context of primary care availability in Freeman requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will assess the quality and accessibility of care, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area, informing both patient choices and potential areas for healthcare improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric for assessing access to care. In a rural area like Freeman, and specifically within the 24724 ZIP code, this ratio can fluctuate significantly. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability of care, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes for lung cancer patients. Data from local health departments, state medical boards, and national databases like the American Medical Association (AMA) are crucial for determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code. It's essential to differentiate between general practitioners, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer care when calculating this ratio.

Identifying standout practices within 24724 is critical. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Practices with a proven track record of early lung cancer detection, utilizing advanced diagnostic technologies like low-dose CT scans, and adhering to the latest treatment guidelines are paramount. Furthermore, the presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and specialized nurses, is a strong indicator of comprehensive care. Patient reviews, hospital quality ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by specific practices. Researching the affiliations of these practices with larger healthcare systems, such as university hospitals or regional cancer centers, can also indicate access to advanced resources and research opportunities.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in 24724 to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within local practices, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients is vital. Factors such as insurance coverage for telemedicine services and the technological infrastructure available to patients (e.g., internet access, device availability) also need to be considered. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, facilitating access to specialists and providing ongoing support during treatment and recovery.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health services within 24724, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Ideally, these resources should be integrated into the overall care plan, with easy referral pathways from primary care physicians and oncologists. The presence of specialized mental health professionals with experience in oncology is particularly beneficial. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide patients with a valuable network of support and shared experiences.

Primary care availability in Freeman acts as the initial gateway to lung cancer detection. Early detection through screening programs, often initiated by primary care physicians, is crucial for improving survival rates. Evaluating the accessibility of primary care within Freeman involves assessing the number of primary care physicians, their geographic distribution, and the availability of appointments. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers can also play a significant role in ensuring access to care for all residents. Furthermore, understanding the primary care physicians' awareness of lung cancer screening guidelines and their willingness to recommend screening to eligible patients is essential.

This analysis requires a comprehensive investigation. It's about more than just numbers; it's about understanding the healthcare ecosystem within 24724 and Freeman. It requires gathering data from various sources, including local hospitals, physician practices, health departments, and patient advocacy groups. It's about synthesizing this information to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of lung cancer care in this specific geographic area.

Ultimately, this analysis aims to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health. It also provides valuable insights for healthcare providers and policymakers, highlighting areas where improvements can be made to enhance access to care, improve patient outcomes, and reduce the burden of lung cancer in the community. This detailed analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing landscape.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics within ZIP Code 24724 and the surrounding areas, we strongly recommend exploring the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and facilitating informed decision-making.