24924, Buckeye, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24924, Buckeye, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24924 has some form of health insurance. 83.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.44 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 24924 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24924. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 164 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 85 health care providers accessible to residents in 24924, Buckeye, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24924 & Buckeye, WV

The assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 24924, encompassing the town of Buckeye, West Virginia, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on lung cancer care, considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. The aim is to provide a nuanced 'Lung Cancer Score' reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

A critical factor in evaluating lung cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, facilitating early detection and referral to specialists. In Buckeye, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant concern. The limited number of PCPs, coupled with a geographically dispersed population, likely results in a higher patient load per physician. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less time dedicated to each patient during consultations. The lack of readily available PCPs presents a challenge for proactive lung cancer screening, as timely access to primary care is crucial for implementing screening protocols, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Evaluating practices involves assessing factors like the availability of electronic health records (EHRs), which streamline information sharing and improve care coordination. The presence of accredited practices, adhering to rigorous quality standards, is also a positive indicator. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and preventative care are more likely to provide superior lung cancer screening and management. However, the specific details of practice accreditation and quality metrics within Buckeye require further investigation to provide a definitive assessment.

Specialist care is also essential for lung cancer treatment. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The geographic isolation of Buckeye necessitates an examination of specialist access. Residents may need to travel to larger cities, such as Charleston or Beckley, for specialized consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment, adding to the burden on patients. The availability of oncology services, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, within a reasonable distance is critical. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with these services would significantly improve the 'Lung Cancer Score.'

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices in Buckeye is a crucial indicator. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, provide remote monitoring of patients, and offer educational resources. The ability to access specialists via telehealth can reduce the need for travel and improve patient convenience. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on factors like reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through external referrals, significantly impacts the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.' A comprehensive approach to care considers the emotional needs of patients, recognizing that mental health is inextricably linked to physical health.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for Buckeye, WV (ZIP Code 24924) is likely impacted by the challenges of rural healthcare. The limited number of PCPs and specialists, coupled with geographic isolation, presents significant hurdles. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are crucial for mitigating these challenges. A higher score would be achieved by practices demonstrating a commitment to quality improvement, patient education, and preventative care. The presence of a local hospital or clinic offering oncology services would also be a major positive factor.

The evaluation of specific practices within the area is essential. Identifying standout practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives is critical. This requires a detailed assessment of individual practices, including their staffing levels, accreditation status, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support services. The lack of readily available information about individual practice performance makes this a challenging task.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Buckeye, WV, reflects the complexities of rural healthcare. While the area faces challenges related to physician availability and geographic isolation, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services offer opportunities for improvement. A comprehensive assessment of individual practices, including their commitment to quality and patient-centered care, is essential for providing a more definitive score. The overall score is likely moderate, reflecting the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care, expand specialist services, and support the emotional well-being of patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buckeye, WV, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, pinpoint specialist locations, and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare providers. Use CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.