24729, Hiawatha, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24729, Hiawatha, West Virginia is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.33 percent of the residents in 24729 has some form of health insurance. 93.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 23.33 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 24729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,406 health care providers accessible to residents in 24729, Hiawatha, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hiawatha, WV (ZIP Code 24729)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Hiawatha, West Virginia (ZIP code 24729) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing its preparedness for lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific area.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy rests on robust primary care. In Hiawatha, the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as a critical gateway. The availability of PCPs directly impacts early detection, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, impacting survival rates. Evaluating the current ratio requires examining the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the US Census Bureau can be cross-referenced to calculate this ratio. A high ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, would significantly lower the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and characteristics of primary care practices are essential. Assessing the presence of practices that actively screen for lung cancer, particularly in high-risk populations (smokers, former smokers), is vital. Practices that employ evidence-based screening guidelines, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals, contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is a crucial element. Practices utilizing integrated EHR systems are likely to have a higher Lung Cancer Score.

The physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for specialists involved in lung cancer care, presents another critical aspect. Pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists are all essential in treating lung cancer. Analyzing the number of these specialists practicing within a reasonable geographic radius of Hiawatha is essential. A low number of specialists, leading to long wait times for consultations and treatment, would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score. The proximity of specialized cancer centers, such as those affiliated with larger hospitals, also needs consideration. Patients in Hiawatha may rely on facilities in neighboring cities or states, which can affect access to care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring, and offer convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine for lung cancer care, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists or oncology support groups, would receive a higher Lung Cancer Score. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine services.

Mental health resources play a significant role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is crucial. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health providers, are likely to provide more comprehensive care. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can also contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the 24729 ZIP code, or those serving its population, can significantly influence the overall score. These practices might demonstrate excellence in specific areas, such as early detection, patient navigation, or innovative treatment approaches. Identifying and highlighting these practices, through patient reviews, professional recognition, or data analysis, is crucial. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, promoting improvements in lung cancer care.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Regular updates and re-evaluations are necessary to ensure its accuracy. Factors like changes in physician staffing, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new treatment options can all impact the score.

The analysis of the 24729 ZIP code requires a careful assessment of the available resources. The data must be collected, analyzed, and interpreted to provide an accurate picture of the healthcare landscape. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in lung cancer care. This analysis is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hiawatha and the surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare facilities, physician specialties, and population demographics, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive and comprehensive analysis.