25108, Hewett, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25108, Hewett, West Virginia is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.86 percent of the residents in 25108 has some form of health insurance. 58.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.39 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 25108 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 103 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25108. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 200 health care providers accessible to residents in 25108, Hewett, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hewett, WV (ZIP Code 25108)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support within ZIP code 25108, encompassing the town of Hewett, West Virginia. We'll examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in the overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for this specific geographic area. This analysis is designed to highlight strengths and weaknesses, offering insights for residents seeking quality care and for healthcare providers aiming to improve their services.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management begins with accessible and quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Hewett, the availability of PCPs directly impacts the likelihood of timely screening and diagnosis. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential strain on existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care discussions. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive patient management and improved chances of early intervention. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 25108 needs careful examination using publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or similar agencies. This data will be a key component of the overall score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. Are local practices adhering to the latest screening guidelines for individuals at high risk, such as those with a history of smoking or exposure to other carcinogens? Do they offer or readily refer patients for low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for early lung cancer detection? Investigating the practices’ adherence to these guidelines is critical. Furthermore, the presence of integrated care models, where PCPs collaborate closely with specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, can significantly improve patient outcomes. This integrated approach allows for seamless transitions between primary care, specialist consultations, and treatment plans.

Identifying standout practices within the area is vital. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can positively influence the overall quality of care. Evaluating practices based on factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) for improved communication and data management, and the availability of comprehensive patient education materials can reveal those that excel in providing patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, and the signs and symptoms of lung cancer, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and patient empowerment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Hewett. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without the need for extensive travel. The availability of telemedicine services, particularly for pulmonology and oncology, can significantly improve access to care for patients in 25108. Assessing the number of practices offering telehealth appointments, the types of services offered, and the ease of use of the platforms is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health resources are essential for supporting patients through this challenging journey. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness, is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of these resources, including their proximity to patients, the acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups, will be factored into the Lung Cancer Score. Collaboration between primary care practices, oncologists, and mental health providers is critical for ensuring patients receive the holistic care they need.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for Hewett, WV, will be determined by a weighted analysis of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted based on the current population and the availability of PCPs. Adherence to screening guidelines and the presence of integrated care models will influence the quality of care score. Telemedicine adoption will be assessed based on the number of practices offering these services and the range of services available. Finally, the availability of mental health resources will be weighted based on the number of providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility for patients.

This comprehensive analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Hewett, WV, with a specific focus on lung cancer care. It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, adherence to screening guidelines, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare, and healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hewett, WV, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of care in your community.