24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.71 percent of the residents in 24946 has some form of health insurance. 60.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.81 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 24946 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24946. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 364 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 24946, Hillsboro, West Virginia.

The following analysis evaluates the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 24946, encompassing Hillsboro, West Virginia, focusing on factors crucial to patient outcomes. This assessment aims to provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, with a particular emphasis on resources relevant to lung cancer patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hillsboro presents a critical starting point. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly impact timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing care for lung cancer patients. While specific data on the exact ratio within 24946 requires detailed investigation, the broader context of rural healthcare shortages suggests this is an area requiring careful consideration. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is equally vital. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, facilitating early detection and referral to specialists. A robust primary care network is essential for effective lung cancer screening programs, which can drastically improve survival rates.

Standout practices within the area are crucial to identify. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various aspects of care, including patient communication, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines. Identifying these practices requires a comprehensive review of available data, including patient satisfaction surveys, peer reviews, and quality metrics. Any practice demonstrating a commitment to multidisciplinary care, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, would be a significant asset. Furthermore, practices actively participating in clinical trials or offering access to cutting-edge therapies would be highly beneficial for lung cancer patients. The presence of a dedicated oncology nurse navigator, who guides patients through the complexities of treatment and provides emotional support, would also be a strong indicator of quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. In a rural setting like Hillsboro, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without extensive travel. The availability of telemedicine services for pulmonology and oncology consultations is particularly important for lung cancer patients. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and provide timely interventions can also improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. The ease of access to these technologies is key to its success.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a crucial role in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore essential. Integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals are embedded within the primary care or oncology practices, can streamline access to care and improve patient outcomes. Support groups, both in-person and online, also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. The availability of these resources should be considered.

The specifics of lung cancer care in 24946 require a detailed examination of the available resources. This includes the presence of advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, necessary for accurate staging and monitoring of the disease. The availability of radiation therapy and surgical oncology services within a reasonable distance is also crucial. The proximity to larger medical centers offering comprehensive cancer care is a significant advantage, as it allows patients to access specialized treatments and clinical trials. A lack of these services would be a major concern.

The evaluation of primary care availability necessitates a review of the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Factors such as appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments should be considered. The presence of patient-centered medical homes, which emphasize coordinated and comprehensive care, is a positive indicator. The ability of PCPs to effectively manage chronic conditions, such as COPD, which often co-exists with lung cancer, is also important.

The quality of lung cancer care in 24946 is contingent on a number of factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, as well as the proximity to larger medical centers, also plays a significant role. A comprehensive assessment should evaluate all of these factors.

Primary care availability is equally important. A strong primary care network facilitates early detection and referral for lung cancer patients. The number of PCPs, appointment wait times, and the presence of patient-centered medical homes are all crucial considerations. A robust primary care system is a cornerstone of effective cancer care.

The overall assessment of healthcare resources in 24946 reveals a complex picture. The rural setting presents both challenges and opportunities. Addressing the physician shortage, expanding telemedicine services, and ensuring access to mental health support are critical steps towards improving lung cancer care. A detailed investigation of the available resources is necessary to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24946, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and the demographic characteristics of the population, explore the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the healthcare resources available in Hillsboro and the surrounding areas.