25446, Summit Point, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25446, Summit Point, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25446 has some form of health insurance. 14.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.66 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 25446 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25446. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 93 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,252 health care providers accessible to residents in 25446, Summit Point, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Summit Point, WV (ZIP Code 25446)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of healthcare resources in Summit Point, West Virginia (ZIP code 25446), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The assessment considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the community's preparedness to address this significant health concern.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon strong primary care. Early detection through screening programs, facilitated by readily accessible primary care physicians, is paramount. In Summit Point, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of the community’s ability to combat lung cancer. We need to assess the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, and more importantly, the ratio of physicians to the population. This ratio directly impacts patient access to timely appointments, preventive screenings, and ongoing care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, may present challenges for individuals seeking prompt medical attention, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have robust electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate seamless information sharing with specialists? These factors contribute to a patient-centered approach, which is particularly important for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer. Standout practices in the area will be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, preventive care, and proactive communication. They will likely have established relationships with local pulmonologists and oncologists, ensuring smooth referrals and coordinated care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Summit Point. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing potential disruptions to their lives. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even remote monitoring of symptoms. The availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of use for patients are all important factors to consider when evaluating the healthcare landscape. Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience and improve overall care coordination.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health resources are therefore an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is crucial for supporting patients and their families. Access to these resources can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges associated with diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, or that have strong referral networks with mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being.

Furthermore, the presence of support groups, cancer support organizations, and patient advocacy groups in the area contributes to a supportive environment for individuals affected by lung cancer. These groups provide valuable peer support, educational resources, and opportunities for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences. The availability and accessibility of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

Determining a precise "Lung Cancer Score" requires a detailed analysis of all the factors mentioned above, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. This score would ideally be a composite measure reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address lung cancer. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment, with greater access to care, comprehensive support services, and a proactive approach to prevention and treatment.

In the absence of a precise score, we can make some general observations about the healthcare environment in Summit Point. Being a rural area, it may face challenges common to such areas, including potentially lower physician-to-patient ratios and limited access to specialized care. However, the presence of dedicated primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate these challenges. The specific practices that stand out will be those that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology to improve access, and integrate mental health support into their treatment plans.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summit Point and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice types, and the availability of healthcare services within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This visual approach can help identify areas with limited access to care and highlight opportunities for improvement. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper insight into the healthcare infrastructure in Summit Point and to inform your decisions about accessing care.