24882, Simon, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24882, Simon, West Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.65 percent of the residents in 24882 has some form of health insurance. 47.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.40 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 24882 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24882. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 67 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 99 health care providers accessible to residents in 24882, Simon, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24882 & Primary Care in Simon

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 24882, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical factor in early detection and management. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive lung cancer care ecosystem. The analysis will also consider the specific context of primary care availability in the nearby town of Simon, West Virginia, to provide a broader perspective on healthcare access in the region.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection. This, in turn, is heavily reliant on the accessibility and quality of primary care physicians. Regular check-ups, thorough patient histories, and a willingness to order necessary screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, are paramount. A shortage of primary care physicians, or practices with limited capacity, can significantly hinder these vital early interventions, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes.

Within ZIP code 24882, the physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can create significant challenges. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the diagnosis of suspicious symptoms. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also crucial, but their effectiveness is inextricably linked to the strength of the primary care foundation. These specialists are often referral-based, so if the primary care physicians are overwhelmed, the specialist network will be affected.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care, including robust screening programs, patient education initiatives, and a collaborative approach to patient management. Examining the patient experience, including appointment availability, communication with physicians, and the overall quality of care, is critical to identifying these high-performing practices. These practices often have a higher degree of patient satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like the one encompassed by ZIP code 24882. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices, including the types of services offered and the technological infrastructure in place, is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, but they play a vital role in the well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, are essential components of comprehensive lung cancer care.

The proximity of Simon, West Virginia, and its primary care availability also impacts the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 24882. Patients in 24882 may seek care in Simon, and the availability of primary care resources in Simon can impact the overall access to care for the region. The availability of resources in Simon can offset some of the challenges posed by a limited physician-to-patient ratio in 24882.

The analysis of primary care availability in Simon must consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, and the availability of telemedicine and mental health services. This information helps paint a more complete picture of the healthcare access in the region. The availability of primary care in Simon can be a critical factor in shaping the overall quality of care for patients in ZIP code 24882.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is not a simple numerical rating. It's a multifaceted assessment that considers the interconnectedness of various factors. The score will be impacted by physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the availability of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The evaluation of these factors requires a data-driven approach. This includes analyzing publicly available data, such as physician directories and hospital statistics, as well as conducting interviews with healthcare providers and patients. This process provides a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 24882 and the surrounding region.

The goal of this analysis is to identify areas of strength and weakness in the lung cancer care ecosystem, ultimately leading to improvements in patient outcomes. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare system, stakeholders can work collaboratively to enhance access to care, improve the quality of services, and provide comprehensive support for patients facing this challenging disease.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also a critical factor. However, their effectiveness is linked to the strength of the primary care foundation. A strong primary care system can facilitate timely referrals to specialists, ensuring that patients receive the specialized care they need.

The analysis will also consider the role of community health initiatives and patient advocacy groups. These organizations often play a vital role in educating the public about lung cancer, promoting early detection, and providing support to patients and their families.

The integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also enhance the quality of care. EHRs can facilitate the sharing of patient information among healthcare providers, while patient portals can empower patients to manage their health information and communicate with their doctors.

The overall goal is to create a more robust and patient-centered healthcare system. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community stakeholders. By working together, we can improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately improve the lives of patients affected by lung cancer.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of ZIP code 24882 and the surrounding areas, including interactive maps and detailed data visualizations, explore the CartoChrome maps.