25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.76 percent of the residents in 25443 has some form of health insurance. 28.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.24 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 25443 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,617 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25443. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,237 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 25443, Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Shepherdstown, WV (ZIP Code 25443)**

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within Shepherdstown, West Virginia (ZIP code 25443), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals in this community, particularly concerning primary care access, physician capabilities, and support systems. The analysis considers data on primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A fundamental aspect of lung cancer care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). Early detection is crucial, and PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Shepherdstown’s healthcare ecosystem is evaluated based on the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, as well as the population they serve. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The availability of PCPs who are accepting new patients is another vital consideration. This influences the ease with which residents can establish a relationship with a primary care provider, which is essential for ongoing health management and preventative care.

The analysis will examine the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. Are primary care practices concentrated in specific locations, or are they dispersed throughout the community? This distribution impacts access for residents who may face transportation challenges or live in more rural areas. Further, the analysis considers the types of primary care practices available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and general practice. The diversity of specialties within primary care contributes to a more comprehensive healthcare system.

**Standout Practices and Physician Specialization**

Beyond the availability of PCPs, the quality and specialization of the physicians are paramount. This analysis will identify standout practices within the area. This includes assessing the practices' commitment to preventive care, such as lung cancer screening, and their adoption of best practices in patient care. This involves examining the practices’ use of electronic health records, their patient satisfaction scores, and their participation in quality improvement programs.

The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is critical for lung cancer treatment. The analysis will evaluate the availability of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance from Shepherdstown. The proximity of these specialists significantly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely and appropriate care. Further, the analysis will investigate the physicians' experience and expertise in lung cancer treatment. This includes their training, board certifications, and participation in continuing medical education programs.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine services by primary care practices and specialists in the Shepherdstown area. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience.

The analysis will also consider the technological infrastructure supporting telemedicine services. This includes the availability of high-speed internet access in the community and the ease with which patients can access and use telemedicine platforms. The successful implementation of telemedicine requires robust infrastructure and patient education. The analysis will consider the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes, including patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment plans.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services in the Shepherdstown area, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The availability of mental health support groups, both in-person and online, will also be assessed.

The analysis will consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. This includes the availability of on-site therapists or the ability of PCPs to refer patients to mental health professionals. The coordination of care between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for comprehensive patient care. The analysis will also assess the availability of support services for caregivers, as they often experience significant stress and emotional burden.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Recommendations**

Based on the above analysis, a Lung Cancer Score will be assigned to Shepherdstown, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer-related healthcare resources. The score will take into account the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis will also provide recommendations for improving lung cancer care in Shepherdstown. This may include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs, expanding the availability of specialists, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and enhancing access to mental health services. The recommendations will be tailored to the specific needs of the community and will aim to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Conclusion**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Shepherdstown is critical for residents and healthcare providers. The Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the resources available, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement. By understanding the existing conditions, the community can work to enhance the availability and quality of care, especially for those affected by lung cancer.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shepherdstown, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare resources in the area.