24892, War, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24892, War, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.10 percent of the residents in 24892 has some form of health insurance. 89.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 12.18 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 24892 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 474 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24892. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 312 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 24892, War, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: War, WV (ZIP Code 24892)

The task at hand is to analyze the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the ZIP Code 24892, specifically focusing on primary care physicians and their impact. This analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components in a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in War, West Virginia, and identify areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk due to factors like smoking history. The physician-to-patient ratio in War, WV, is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), would be instrumental in determining this ratio. We must compare this ratio to state and national averages to gauge the severity of any potential shortages.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. The presence of standout practices within the community is a significant positive indicator. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients. They may also utilize advanced diagnostic tools and offer comprehensive patient education. Identifying such practices requires research, including reviewing patient testimonials, examining online ratings, and analyzing the services offered. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and adhere to evidence-based guidelines are particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like War. It allows patients to consult with specialists, receive follow-up care, and participate in support groups remotely. The level of telemedicine integration within local practices, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, will significantly impact the overall quality of care. We must ascertain which practices offer telehealth services and how frequently they are utilized.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are, therefore, an integral part of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is vital. These professionals can provide support to patients and their families, helping them cope with the emotional challenges associated with the disease. We need to assess the proximity of mental health facilities to primary care practices and the extent of collaboration between these providers. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, should be evaluated.

The specific characteristics of each primary care practice in War, WV, need to be examined. This includes the qualifications of the physicians, the services offered, the types of insurance accepted, and the practice's commitment to patient education and preventative care. Practices that have a strong focus on preventative medicine, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening, will be given a higher score. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers are also important considerations.

The analysis must also consider the broader healthcare ecosystem in the surrounding area. The proximity to specialized cancer centers, hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, and radiation therapy facilities is crucial. Patients in War may need to travel to access specialized care, and the distance and accessibility of these facilities will impact their overall care experience. Public transportation options and the availability of patient transportation services must be considered.

The evaluation of primary care availability should also consider the demographics of the population served. War, WV, is a rural community, and the healthcare needs of its residents may differ from those in more urban areas. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can influence health outcomes. The analysis must account for these factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite metric, reflecting the various factors discussed above. It will not be a simple numerical score but rather a nuanced evaluation that considers the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in War, WV. The score will be based on a weighted average of the key indicators, with factors like physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability carrying significant weight. The score will be accompanied by a detailed narrative that explains the rationale behind the assessment and highlights areas for improvement.

This detailed analysis will provide valuable insights into the state of lung cancer care in War, WV. It will help identify areas where resources are lacking and where improvements can be made. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to develop strategies to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in War, WV, and the surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and support services, consider utilizing the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize this information, allowing you to explore the data in a user-friendly format. **Explore the healthcare landscape of War, WV, today with CartoChrome maps!**