24894, Warriormine, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24894, Warriormine, West Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.80 percent of the residents in 24894 has some form of health insurance. 91.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 17.24 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 24894 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 93 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24894. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 66 health care providers accessible to residents in 24894, Warriormine, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Warriormine, WV (ZIP Code 24894)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Warriormine, West Virginia, specifically within the 24894 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician availability, the quality of primary care, the integration of telehealth, and access to mental health support, all viewed through the lens of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals facing this challenging disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. Within the 24894 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the American Medical Association (AMA) must be consulted to determine the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within the area. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, longer wait times for appointments, and potentially poorer outcomes. This initial assessment must be coupled with an evaluation of physician specialization. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists is paramount, as is the availability of radiologists specializing in thoracic imaging.

Primary care availability in Warriormine is another pivotal factor. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Their ability to recognize early warning signs, order appropriate diagnostic tests (such as chest X-rays and CT scans), and refer patients to specialists is crucial. The quality of primary care is not solely determined by the number of PCPs. Factors such as the availability of electronic health records (EHRs), the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, and the level of patient education provided by PCPs all contribute to the overall effectiveness of primary care. A robust primary care system, characterized by accessible and knowledgeable PCPs, significantly improves the chances of early detection and successful treatment.

Identifying standout practices within the 24894 ZIP code requires in-depth research. This involves examining the reputation of medical practices, their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers, and their commitment to providing comprehensive care. Factors to consider include the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners, the use of multidisciplinary teams (including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists), and the provision of patient support services (such as smoking cessation programs and support groups). Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and patient reviews can offer insights into the quality of care provided by individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Warriormine. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care without the need for extensive travel. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients can improve access to consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the 24894 ZIP code involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease with which patients can access these services. The integration of telehealth platforms into existing healthcare systems is crucial for maximizing its benefits.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, a critical component of comprehensive lung cancer care. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors) within the 24894 ZIP code. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health services within medical practices, the availability of support groups, and the accessibility of mental health resources for patients. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient well-being and treatment outcomes.

A comprehensive analysis of lung cancer care in Warriormine, WV, necessitates the integration of all these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources must be considered in conjunction. This integrated approach allows for a more accurate assessment of the resources available to patients and highlights areas where improvements are needed. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system and to inform strategies for improving lung cancer care in the community.

Analyzing this data also includes assessing the availability of cancer-specific resources. This includes access to clinical trials, the presence of patient navigators who can guide patients through the complex healthcare system, and the availability of financial assistance programs. These resources can significantly improve patient outcomes by providing access to cutting-edge treatments, reducing the burden of navigating the healthcare system, and addressing the financial challenges associated with cancer treatment.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score for Warriormine, WV, will be a reflection of the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to provide timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support to patients facing this devastating disease. The score should be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape over time. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that patients in Warriormine have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, primary care facilities, and other relevant healthcare resources within the 24894 ZIP code and surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing lung cancer care, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in lung cancer care.