25260, Mason, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25260, Mason, West Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.41 percent of the residents in 25260 has some form of health insurance. 56.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.57 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 25260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 190 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 25260, Mason, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25260 & Primary Care in Mason, WV

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP code 25260, focusing on factors crucial for early detection and comprehensive patient care, particularly in the context of lung cancer. We will also evaluate the availability of primary care resources in Mason County, West Virginia, emphasizing the impact on patient access and overall health outcomes. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a patient's likelihood of receiving timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

ZIP code 25260 encompasses a specific geographic area, and the availability of quality primary care directly impacts the health of its residents. A high Lung Cancer Score reflects a healthcare environment conducive to early detection, robust patient support, and comprehensive care, which are critical for improving survival rates.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios & Access to Care:**

One of the most fundamental aspects of assessing the healthcare landscape is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly hinder access to care, particularly for preventative screenings like those used for lung cancer detection. In areas with limited physician availability, patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The analysis must therefore consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within 25260, alongside the estimated population served. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the US Census Bureau will be essential to establish this ratio.

The geographical distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is another crucial factor. Even if the overall physician-to-patient ratio appears adequate, uneven distribution can create pockets of underserved populations. This is especially relevant in rural areas like Mason County, where travel distances can pose significant barriers to accessing care. The analysis will therefore consider the proximity of primary care practices to residential areas within 25260.

**Standout Practices & Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices within 25260 requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. This includes evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, specifically their screening rates for lung cancer. Practices actively promoting and facilitating lung cancer screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., those with a history of smoking) will receive higher scores. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, within or readily accessible to these practices is also a key indicator of quality.

The analysis will also examine the practices' adherence to established clinical guidelines for lung cancer screening and management. This includes assessing their use of evidence-based practices and their participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care will be recognized as leaders in the field. The analysis will assess the presence of certified staff, such as nurses and respiratory therapists.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Expanded Access:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within 25260 is therefore a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score assessment. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education will receive higher scores. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve patient convenience, and facilitate timely access to care, especially for individuals living in remote areas or with mobility limitations.

The analysis will assess the types of telemedicine services offered by practices, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of these services, coupled with the ease of access and use, will be considered in the overall score. The analysis will also consider the availability of digital literacy programs to ensure that all patients can benefit from telemedicine.

**Mental Health Resources & Holistic Care:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals will receive higher scores.

The analysis will assess the availability of services such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care. The integration of mental health services into the primary care setting can help patients manage the psychological challenges associated with lung cancer, improving their overall quality of life and treatment outcomes. This will also include assessing the availability of social worker support.

**Primary Care Availability in Mason County:**

The availability of primary care resources in Mason County as a whole is a critical determinant of the Lung Cancer Score for 25260. The county's overall physician-to-population ratio, the distribution of practices, and the availability of specialized services all contribute to the healthcare landscape within the ZIP code. A county with a robust primary care infrastructure will provide a stronger foundation for early detection, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment of lung cancer.

The analysis will consider the county's access to hospitals, cancer centers, and other healthcare facilities. The presence of these resources within Mason County or nearby areas will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score. The availability of transportation options, such as public transit or community shuttle services, is also important for ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

**Conclusion & Call to Action:**

This Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a framework for assessing the quality and accessibility of primary care within ZIP code 25260 and the broader context of Mason County. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The goal is to promote a healthcare environment that supports early detection, comprehensive care, and improved outcomes for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 25260 and Mason County, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a powerful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in this region.