25214, Winifrede, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.58 percent of the residents in 25214 has some form of health insurance. 41.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.13 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 25214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 291 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25214. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 53 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 156 health care providers accessible to residents in 25214, Winifrede, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25214 and Primary Care in Winifrede

This analysis delves into the critical elements affecting lung cancer care within ZIP Code 25214, encompassing the Winifrede area, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape as it relates to lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, ultimately informing residents and stakeholders about the strengths and weaknesses of the system.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Winifrede, the primary care landscape is a crucial indicator. A robust primary care system acts as the first line of defense, facilitating early detection through routine screenings and providing crucial support for patients navigating the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. The density of PCPs, measured as a physician-to-patient ratio, is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care, shorter wait times for appointments, and more personalized attention. Conversely, a low ratio can lead to delays in diagnosis, potentially impacting patient outcomes. Assessing this ratio in Winifrede, and comparing it to state and national averages, is vital for understanding the community's overall health preparedness.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. This involves evaluating the presence of practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for high-risk individuals (e.g., current or former smokers), and those that adhere to established guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. Identifying standout practices requires researching their patient outcomes, patient satisfaction scores, and their adoption of innovative approaches to care. Are there practices that actively participate in clinical trials or offer specialized services related to lung cancer? These practices often serve as models for the community, setting a high standard for care delivery.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within ZIP Code 25214, and specifically in Winifrede, is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists. The extent to which local primary care practices have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a critical indicator of the community's ability to provide accessible and timely care. The availability of telehealth can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is often substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Assessing the availability of these resources in Winifrede and the surrounding area is essential. Are there mental health professionals who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are there support groups or community programs that provide emotional support and guidance? The integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system is vital for addressing the holistic needs of patients.

The analysis also considers the local infrastructure supporting lung cancer care. This includes the presence of diagnostic facilities, such as CT scanners and other imaging equipment, and the availability of specialized treatment centers, such as radiation oncology and chemotherapy infusion suites. The proximity of these facilities to Winifrede is a key factor, as travel distance can significantly impact patient access to care. The availability of transportation services for patients who may have mobility issues is also a critical consideration.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the socioeconomic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. This includes assessing the rates of smoking, exposure to environmental hazards, and the level of health insurance coverage in the community. These factors can significantly influence a person's risk of developing lung cancer and their ability to access timely and effective care. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving overall health outcomes.

The effectiveness of public health initiatives aimed at lung cancer prevention and early detection is another important factor. This involves assessing the community's awareness of lung cancer risks, the availability of smoking cessation programs, and the promotion of lung cancer screening. Are there local campaigns that educate the public about the importance of early detection and the benefits of quitting smoking? The presence of strong public health programs can play a significant role in reducing the incidence and mortality of lung cancer.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 25214, encompassing Winifrede, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis has highlighted the critical components, including primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The information gleaned from this analysis can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system, informing efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately, improve lung cancer outcomes for residents of Winifrede and the surrounding area.

For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare access, allowing you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.