24984, Waiteville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 24984, Waiteville, West Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24984 has some form of health insurance. 84.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 15.58 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 24984 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24984. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 322 health care providers accessible to residents in 24984, Waiteville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24984 & Primary Care in Waiteville**

The health landscape within ZIP code 24984, encompassing the rural community of Waiteville, West Virginia, presents unique challenges and opportunities when assessing its capacity to address lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources, provides a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. This score isn't a single number, but a composite understanding based on several key factors.

One of the most critical aspects of lung cancer care is early detection. This relies heavily on accessible and proactive primary care. In Waiteville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant concern. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of medical professionals. The limited number of primary care physicians in 24984, coupled with an aging population and potential for limited specialist access, suggests a lower initial score. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face longer wait times for appointments or have to travel significant distances for care.

The quality of primary care, however, is not solely dependent on physician numbers. The practices themselves play a vital role. Are there any standout practices in the area? Are there any practices that are known for their proactive screening programs for lung cancer? Are they actively promoting smoking cessation programs, which are critical in preventing lung cancer? The presence of well-established practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care would positively impact the score. This includes practices that utilize electronic health records to track patient risk factors and implement evidence-based screening guidelines.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. In a geographically isolated area like Waiteville, telemedicine can bridge the gap created by physician shortages. The availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly improve access to care. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering remote monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments, would receive a higher score. This technology can also facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically present in the area.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is vital for patients navigating the complexities of their illness. The availability of these resources, whether through on-site providers or partnerships with mental health clinics, directly impacts the overall quality of care and, therefore, the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans demonstrate a more holistic approach.

The availability of smoking cessation programs also contributes to the score. Lung cancer is often linked to smoking, and providing resources to help patients quit smoking is a preventative measure. Practices that offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication, demonstrate a commitment to reducing lung cancer risk within the community. This includes providing access to nicotine replacement therapy and other support services.

Another factor to consider is the availability of diagnostic imaging services. Access to CT scanners and other imaging technologies is essential for the early detection of lung cancer. The proximity of these services to primary care practices and the efficiency of the referral process significantly impact the score. Practices located near hospitals or imaging centers with advanced diagnostic capabilities receive a higher score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Waiteville, 24984, is likely moderate. While the community may face challenges related to physician shortages and geographic isolation, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can improve the overall score. The score will also be impacted by the proactive approach to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening initiatives.

To improve the Lung Cancer Score, Waiteville needs to prioritize several key areas. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is essential. Expanding telemedicine capabilities, especially for specialist consultations, can improve access to care. Investing in mental health resources and smoking cessation programs is also critical. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to building a robust healthcare system.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The Lung Cancer Score is not static; it changes based on healthcare delivery. By focusing on these key areas, Waiteville can improve its capacity to address lung cancer and improve the health of its community.

Are you interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Waiteville and the surrounding areas? Explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Uncover valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare access, and other crucial factors impacting lung cancer care.