25444, Slanesville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25444, Slanesville, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25444 has some form of health insurance. 30.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.94 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 25444 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25444. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 157 health care providers accessible to residents in 25444, Slanesville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Slanesville, WV (ZIP Code 25444)**

This analysis focuses on evaluating the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 25444 (Slanesville, WV), specifically concerning lung cancer care, primary care access, and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors impacting early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This score is not a single number but a qualitative evaluation across several key domains.

**Primary Care Availability & Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Slanesville, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: limited primary care physician (PCP) availability. A crucial element of our score centers on the physician-to-patient ratio. The national average is around 2.6 PCPs per 1,000 people. Slanesville, with its smaller population, might experience a ratio significantly lower, potentially hindering timely access to preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. This scarcity could translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) would be essential to determine the precise PCP-to-population ratio. The presence of any Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) or Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) within or near the ZIP code would positively impact the score, as these often serve underserved populations.

**Standout Practices & Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices is vital. This involves assessing the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines. Practices demonstrating a commitment to early detection, such as offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screenings for high-risk individuals (current or former smokers), would receive a higher score.

Factors to consider include: the presence of certified lung cancer screening centers; the availability of on-site diagnostic imaging (X-rays, CT scans); and the practice's integration with larger healthcare systems or hospitals that offer specialized oncology services. Practices actively participating in community outreach programs to educate residents about lung cancer risks and screening options also contribute positively.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Its Role:**

Telemedicine plays a critical role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. Its adoption within Slanesville directly influences the Lung Cancer Score. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients with lung cancer would receive a higher score. This is particularly crucial for access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally.

The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is a key factor. High-speed internet access is essential for effective telemedicine implementation. Practices offering telehealth services should be evaluated on their ease of use, patient satisfaction with the platform, and the integration of telehealth into their overall care model.

**Mental Health Resources & Their Significance:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. The availability of mental health resources within or near Slanesville is a critical component of the score. Practices that proactively screen patients for depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, and offer referrals to mental health professionals, would be rated favorably.

The presence of local mental health providers, support groups, and access to counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients are essential. Collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers to ensure coordinated care is also a positive indicator. The score also considers the availability of resources for managing chronic pain, a common side effect of lung cancer treatment.

**Specific Considerations within ZIP Code 25444:**

Due to the rural nature of Slanesville, specific considerations are paramount. The proximity to larger healthcare facilities, such as hospitals in nearby towns or cities, is important. The availability of transportation options for patients to access these facilities is another key factor.

The score should also consider the demographics of the community, including age, socioeconomic status, and smoking prevalence. These factors influence the risk of lung cancer and the need for targeted screening and education programs. The presence of community health initiatives aimed at promoting smoking cessation and healthy lifestyles would also positively impact the score.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score for Slanesville (ZIP code 25444) is not a simple metric. It is a holistic assessment considering primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of local practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score would be significantly influenced by the community's ability to overcome the challenges of rural healthcare, such as limited resources and geographical barriers.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape within Slanesville and visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful way to analyze healthcare data, identify gaps in care, and visualize the distribution of resources within the community.