24957, Maxwelton, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24957, Maxwelton, West Virginia is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.12 percent of the residents in 24957 has some form of health insurance. 27.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.29 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 24957 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24957. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 83 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 491 health care providers accessible to residents in 24957, Maxwelton, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Maxwelton, WV (ZIP Code 24957)**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in Maxwelton, West Virginia (ZIP code 24957) through the lens of lung cancer care reveals a complex picture. The availability of quality care, especially for a disease as serious as lung cancer, is a critical indicator of overall community health. This analysis aims to provide a Lung Cancer Score assessment, considering factors like physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure. Maxwelton, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potential shortage of PCPs. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A high ratio (fewer doctors per patient) can lead to delayed appointments, less time spent with each patient, and potentially, missed opportunities for early screening or diagnosis. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 24957 ZIP code is vital. Publicly available resources, like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), could offer insights. However, the specifics of this ratio will directly influence the Lung Cancer Score. A low ratio would negatively impact the score.

The presence of standout practices in the area is another important factor. These practices might have specific expertise in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, or treatment. They might also offer comprehensive services, including access to specialists like pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. Identifying these practices requires detailed research. This could involve reviewing online patient reviews, examining the qualifications of the physicians, and investigating the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scans, which are critical for early lung cancer detection. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), would be considered highly favorable. The presence of such practices would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Maxwelton to access specialists and receive consultations without traveling long distances. The adoption of telemedicine for lung cancer care could include virtual consultations with pulmonologists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for lung cancer-related services, would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor, as it directly impacts the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but play a significant 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 services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is crucial for supporting patients throughout their journey. Practices that integrate mental health services into their lung cancer care programs would be highly regarded. This could involve having on-site therapists, collaborating with mental health professionals in the community, or providing referrals to relevant support groups. The integration of these resources would significantly boost the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Maxwelton (24957) would be derived from a combination of these factors. A comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data on:

* **Physician-to-patient ratio:** The number of PCPs and specialists available.
* **Practice quality:** The presence of standout practices with expertise in lung cancer care.
* **Telemedicine adoption:** The extent to which telemedicine is utilized for lung cancer-related services.
* **Mental health integration:** The availability of mental health resources for patients.
* **Screening Programs:** The availability of screening programs, especially for high-risk individuals.

Each factor would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, as the availability of physicians is fundamental. The final score would be a composite, reflecting the overall quality of lung cancer care available in the community.

Given the inherent challenges of rural healthcare, the Lung Cancer Score for Maxwelton (24957) might be lower than in more urban areas. However, the score can be improved through strategic initiatives. These might include attracting more physicians to the area, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and supporting lung cancer screening programs. Community involvement and advocacy are also critical. Raising awareness about lung cancer, encouraging early screening, and advocating for improved healthcare resources can make a significant difference in patient outcomes.

The analysis also needs to consider the local demographics. Are there higher-than-average rates of smoking or other risk factors for lung cancer? This information would inform the need for targeted screening programs and preventative measures. The socioeconomic status of the community is also relevant, as it can influence access to care and the ability to afford treatment.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Maxwelton (24957) requires a multifaceted approach. The Lung Cancer Score, derived from the factors discussed, provides a snapshot of the current situation. While challenges may exist, the community can work to improve the score and enhance the health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas for improvement, explore the power of data visualization.

**Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and visualize the healthcare landscape in Maxwelton and surrounding areas. Uncover valuable insights and make informed decisions about your health.**