24983, Union, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24983, Union, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.23 percent of the residents in 24983 has some form of health insurance. 62.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.86 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 24983 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24983. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 632 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 417 health care providers accessible to residents in 24983, Union, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Union, WV (ZIP Code 24983)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare in Union, West Virginia (ZIP code 24983) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly concerning lung cancer care. This analysis considers factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, practice quality, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. The objective is to provide a comprehensive ‘Lung Cancer Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

Union, WV, a rural community, faces inherent challenges in healthcare delivery. One of the most significant hurdles is the physician-to-patient ratio. Precise figures fluctuate, but generally, rural areas experience a shortage of healthcare professionals compared to urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased travel distances for patients. The impact on lung cancer patients is substantial; timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial, and delays can significantly affect survival rates.

Primary care availability in Union is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential signs of lung cancer, order necessary screenings (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists is paramount. The number of PCPs, their training, and their willingness to participate in preventative care programs directly influence the early detection and management of lung cancer within the community.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. These practices may demonstrate superior patient care, innovative approaches, or exceptional outcomes. Evaluating these practices involves assessing several factors. Does the practice offer comprehensive lung cancer screening programs? Are they equipped with the latest diagnostic tools? Do they have a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, to provide holistic care? Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education, support groups, and palliative care services are crucial indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to enhance lung cancer care in Union. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for accessing oncologists and other specialists who may not be readily available locally. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, provide virtual support groups, and improve access to educational resources. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring capabilities, will influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are a critical, often overlooked, aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is vital for supporting patients through their treatment journey. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through referrals to specialized providers, significantly impacts the overall quality of care and influences the Lung Cancer Score. The integration of mental health support into the broader cancer care plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Specific data points are crucial for a granular analysis. Researching the number of PCPs and specialists in the area, their board certifications, and their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers provides a baseline. Investigating the availability of lung cancer screening programs, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies, and the adoption of telemedicine by local practices adds depth to the assessment. Examining the availability of mental health services, including the number of mental health professionals and the types of support offered, is also critical.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the complex interplay of factors affecting patient outcomes. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system with readily available resources, high-quality practices, and a commitment to patient-centered care. A lower score highlights areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of integrated support services.

The analysis of the Union, WV healthcare landscape reveals a need for focused improvements. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio through recruitment initiatives and incentivizing healthcare professionals to practice in rural areas is essential. Enhancing primary care availability and promoting preventative care programs will improve early detection rates. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services into cancer care plans will improve patient access and support.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Union, WV, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful visual tool for analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas of need, assess accessibility, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and informative way to understand the complexities of the healthcare environment.