24944, Green Bank, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24944, Green Bank, West Virginia is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24944 has some form of health insurance. 20.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 93.17 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 24944 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 105 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24944. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 66 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 24944, Green Bank, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Green Bank, WV (ZIP Code 24944)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare resources in Green Bank, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24944), requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when considering lung cancer, a disease significantly impacted by early detection, access to care, and overall community health. This analysis will focus on the availability and quality of primary care, a critical entry point for lung cancer screening and management, as well as other factors that influence the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific rural setting.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy is robust primary care. In Green Bank, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial determinant of the "Lung Cancer Score." A low physician-to-patient ratio, a common challenge in rural areas, can severely limit access to preventative screenings, timely diagnoses, and ongoing care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 24944 requires data beyond publicly available information. However, we can infer potential challenges based on broader trends in West Virginia and similar rural communities. A scarcity of PCPs means longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the crucial steps of screening and diagnosis for individuals at high risk, such as current or former smokers.

Standout practices, if any exist within or near 24944, would significantly elevate the "Lung Cancer Score." These practices would likely demonstrate excellence in several key areas. First, they would actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for eligible patients based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors. This involves educating patients about the benefits of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans and facilitating access to these screenings. Second, these practices would have established protocols for managing patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer. This includes efficient referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Third, they would embrace a patient-centered approach, providing comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in mitigating the challenges of rural healthcare access. In a geographically isolated area like Green Bank, telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and specialists. It allows patients to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals without having to travel long distances. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, providing ongoing support and early detection of potential complications. The "Lung Cancer Score" is directly influenced by the availability and utilization of telemedicine services. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to offer a higher level of care.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, mental health resources play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, can help patients cope with these challenges and improve their quality of life. The "Lung Cancer Score" considers the accessibility of these resources. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers are better equipped to support their patients.

Another important consideration is the availability of resources to support smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a critical preventative measure. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer in their patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects the commitment of local healthcare providers to address this critical public health issue.

Furthermore, the overall health of the community impacts the "Lung Cancer Score." Factors such as air quality, access to healthy food, and socioeconomic status can all influence lung cancer risk and outcomes. While individual practices may have limited control over these broader community factors, they can play a role in promoting healthy lifestyles and advocating for policies that improve community health.

In summary, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Green Bank (24944) is likely to be influenced by several key factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of smoking cessation programs all contribute to the overall assessment. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a lack of readily available mental health and smoking cessation resources would likely lower the score. Conversely, practices that actively promote screening, embrace telemedicine, and offer comprehensive support services would contribute to a higher score.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Green Bank and surrounding areas, including the specific locations of healthcare providers, the services they offer, and the accessibility of those services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and gain insights into the distribution of resources.