25009, Ashford, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25009, Ashford, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25009 has some form of health insurance. 72.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.31 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 25009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 384 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 207 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 182 health care providers accessible to residents in 25009, Ashford, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ashford, WV (ZIP Code 25009)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly in relation to lung cancer detection and treatment, within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on Ashford, West Virginia, represented by the 25009 ZIP code, examining the landscape of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and ultimately, the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the region. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management, and indeed overall health, is access to primary care. Ashford's primary care availability is the first crucial element to consider. This involves assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 25009 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas that residents might realistically access. This also includes the types of practices available: are they solo practices, group practices, or affiliated with larger hospital systems? The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who often play a vital role in providing primary care, must also be factored in. A limited number of PCPs, particularly when combined with a high population density, would significantly diminish the Lung Cancer Score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. The ideal ratio varies, but a higher ratio of patients per physician generally indicates a greater potential for delayed appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less thorough approach to preventative care and early detection. For lung cancer, early detection is paramount. The ability to quickly access a PCP for routine checkups, screenings, and the investigation of any concerning symptoms is vital. A low physician-to-patient ratio, reflecting a greater availability of PCPs, would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within the 25009 ZIP code is essential. This involves researching the reputations of existing practices. Are they known for providing patient-centered care? Do they actively participate in community health initiatives? Do they have a strong focus on preventative medicine, including lung cancer screening programs? Are they affiliated with hospitals or cancer centers known for their expertise? Practices with a proven track record of excellence, a commitment to early detection, and a patient-focused approach would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and symptom management, can be a game-changer, especially in rural areas like Ashford. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate quicker responses to patient concerns. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will be viewed favorably in this analysis. The ability to easily connect with a doctor, even from home, can be a significant advantage in the early detection and management of lung cancer.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to a comprehensive healthcare assessment. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating. Access to mental health support, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for patients and their families. The availability of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks, will be considered. A robust network of mental health resources would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Ashford (25009) will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment characterized by: a sufficient number of PCPs, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, high-quality practices with a focus on preventative care, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. A low score would reflect the opposite: limited access to primary care, high physician-to-patient ratios, a lack of standout practices, minimal telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health support. The final score, however, is not a definitive judgment but rather an indicator of the overall healthcare environment's capacity to effectively address lung cancer concerns.

It is important to acknowledge that this analysis is based on available public information and estimations. A comprehensive, definitive assessment would require extensive data collection and direct engagement with healthcare providers in the area. The score should be interpreted as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Ashford and a catalyst for further investigation.

The healthcare landscape is dynamic. The availability of resources, the adoption of new technologies, and the quality of care provided can change over time. This analysis, therefore, is a snapshot in time, reflecting the current state of affairs. Continued monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Ashford have access to the best possible healthcare, particularly in the fight against lung cancer.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashford, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and potential areas for improvement, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of the data discussed in this analysis, offering a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.