24846, Isaban, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24846, Isaban, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24846 has some form of health insurance. 87.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 12.34 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 24846 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 67 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24846. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 287 health care providers accessible to residents in 24846, Isaban, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 24846 & Isaban Primary Care

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in the context of ZIP code 24846, focusing on the practices of physicians within the area and the broader access to primary care in Isaban, West Virginia. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering factors relevant to early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This analysis will not provide specific medical advice.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection. This hinges on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) who can screen for risk factors, order necessary diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists. In Isaban, the accessibility of primary care is paramount. A significant challenge in rural areas like this is often the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio indicates a potential shortage of PCPs, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis will investigate the existing PCP-to-patient ratio in Isaban, comparing it to state and national averages. This data will inform the overall score.

Within ZIP code 24846, the performance of individual practices is a critical consideration. The analysis will evaluate several key metrics. One is the adoption of evidence-based screening guidelines. Does each practice actively follow the recommendations of organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals? This includes assessing the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients. The analysis will also consider the availability of comprehensive patient education materials regarding lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening options.

Another crucial aspect is the speed and efficiency of the referral process. When a PCP suspects lung cancer, how quickly can they refer a patient to a pulmonologist, oncologist, or thoracic surgeon? Delays in referral can significantly impact patient outcomes. The analysis will assess the average time to referral for practices within 24846, looking for potential bottlenecks in the system. The presence of established referral networks and collaborations between primary care and specialist providers will be a positive factor.

The analysis will also delve into the integration of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis is a significant emotional burden. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of on-site or readily accessible mental health support services within the practices is essential. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide psychological support, coping strategies, and medication management. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which practices in 24846 have integrated mental health services into their care models.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers may limit access to specialists. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices within 24846 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. The availability of telehealth services can improve convenience for patients and potentially reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

The analysis will also identify any standout practices within ZIP code 24846. These practices may demonstrate exceptional performance in areas such as early detection, patient education, referral efficiency, or mental health integration. Identifying these "best practices" can provide valuable insights and potentially serve as a model for other providers in the area. This could involve a comprehensive approach to patient care.

The quality of lung cancer care is not solely determined by the availability of specialists. The involvement of primary care physicians is paramount. Their role in preventative care, early detection, and patient management is essential. The analysis will assess the level of collaboration and communication between PCPs and specialists in 24846. Effective communication ensures that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators can assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and addressing practical challenges. The presence of patient navigation programs within practices or through community organizations will be considered a positive factor.

The overall Lung Cancer Score will be a composite score, reflecting the combined assessment of all the factors mentioned above. The score will be presented in a way that is easily understandable, allowing residents of 24846 and Isaban to gain valuable insights into the quality of healthcare available in their area. This includes the accessibility of primary care, specialist availability, and the integration of mental health resources.

The analysis will also consider the financial aspects of care. The cost of lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment can be substantial. The analysis will investigate the availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and the transparency of pricing within the practices. This information is crucial for patients seeking affordable and accessible care.

Ultimately, the goal of this Lung Cancer Score analysis is to empower individuals in 24846 and Isaban with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. This includes the availability of screening programs, the efficiency of referral processes, and the integration of mental health services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24846 and Isaban, including the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of resources, and potential access barriers, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and making informed decisions about your health.