24843, Hensley, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24843, Hensley, West Virginia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24843 has some form of health insurance. 77.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.22 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 24843 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24843. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 535 health care providers accessible to residents in 24843, Hensley, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Hensley, WV (ZIP Code 24843)**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within the 24843 ZIP code, focusing on their capacity to manage and support patients at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. The assessment considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hensley, WV, and its preparedness to address lung cancer, a significant health concern in the region.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Hensley, WV, the availability of primary care physicians can be a challenge. The 24843 ZIP code is located in a rural area, potentially facing a shortage of healthcare professionals compared to more urban settings. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and an overall strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure. The impact of this shortage is particularly acute for patients requiring regular screenings, follow-up appointments, and ongoing support related to lung cancer.

Analyzing standout practices requires examining the specific characteristics of the primary care providers in the area. This includes evaluating the services they offer, their commitment to preventive care, and their ability to collaborate with specialists. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, such as offering low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, are considered more favorable. Additionally, practices that have established strong referral networks with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists are vital for comprehensive patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Hensley. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without having to travel long distances. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms, medication adherence, and overall well-being is particularly valuable for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.

Mental health resources are critical for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease can be substantial, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to qualified mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to counseling, support groups, and other mental health resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of lung cancer.

Evaluating the availability of advanced diagnostic tools is a key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Early detection is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes. Practices that have access to or can easily refer patients for advanced imaging technologies, such as low-dose CT scans, are better equipped to identify lung cancer at an early stage. The availability of these diagnostic tools directly impacts the ability to provide timely interventions and improve patient survival rates.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in Hensley, WV, is likely to be influenced by the interplay of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the overall assessment. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the healthcare environment and its ability to meet the needs of patients at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer.

In the absence of readily available, comprehensive data on specific practices within the 24843 ZIP code, a detailed analysis is difficult. However, the general trends observed in rural areas like Hensley, WV, suggest potential challenges. The limited availability of primary care physicians, the potential for limited access to advanced diagnostic tools, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption are likely to impact the overall Lung Cancer Score.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score, several strategies can be implemented. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area is a priority. This can be achieved through recruitment incentives, loan forgiveness programs, and other initiatives aimed at attracting healthcare professionals to rural communities. Expanding access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, is also essential. This may involve partnerships with hospitals or other healthcare providers to share resources and improve access.

Promoting telemedicine adoption is another crucial step. Providing training and support to physicians on the use of telemedicine platforms can help them integrate virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities into their practices. Integrating mental health services is equally important. This can be achieved through partnerships with mental health professionals or by providing on-site counseling services.

The Lung Cancer Score is a dynamic metric that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that patients in Hensley, WV, have access to the best possible care. The score should be a tool to guide healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members in their efforts to improve lung cancer outcomes.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hensley, WV, and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, service offerings, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. These resources can provide valuable insights into the availability of healthcare services and help you make informed decisions about your health.