25534, Kiahsville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25534, Kiahsville, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.45 percent of the residents in 25534 has some form of health insurance. 76.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 13.48 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 25534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 34 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 315 health care providers accessible to residents in 25534, Kiahsville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25534 and Primary Care in Kiahsville**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare within ZIP Code 25534, encompassing the rural community of Kiahsville, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. A "Lung Cancer Score" is not a standard metric, but we can assess the quality of care and resources available, particularly those relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer. This involves evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the presence of specialists, access to diagnostic tools, and the integration of supportive services.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. In Kiahsville, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Low physician-to-patient ratios can significantly hinder timely diagnosis. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors for a larger population, often leads to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying the identification of symptoms and the initiation of screening protocols. This is particularly concerning given the often-subtle early symptoms of lung cancer.

Standout practices within the ZIP Code would ideally demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. This includes actively promoting and facilitating lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals, such as current or former smokers, based on current guidelines. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can more readily identify and track patients who meet the screening criteria. They can also streamline referrals to specialists and ensure seamless communication between healthcare providers.

Telemedicine offers a valuable solution in rural areas like Kiahsville, where geographical barriers can limit access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve the quality of care. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. This is especially important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing emotional support.

Beyond the availability of medical professionals, the presence of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to support groups, counseling, and psychiatric services can significantly improve a patient's quality of life throughout their treatment journey.

The availability of diagnostic tools, such as computed tomography (CT) scanners, is another essential factor. Timely access to CT scans is critical for early detection of lung cancer. Practices that have access to these technologies, either on-site or through partnerships with local hospitals or imaging centers, are better equipped to provide prompt and accurate diagnoses.

The presence of specialized lung cancer care is also a crucial factor. While primary care physicians play a vital role in initial screening and referrals, the expertise of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists is essential for advanced diagnosis and treatment. The proximity and availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance from Kiahsville directly impact the level of care available to patients.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area is likely impacted by the socioeconomic factors of the community. Low socioeconomic status often correlates with reduced access to healthcare, including preventative screenings, and increased exposure to risk factors like smoking. The area’s score would be negatively affected by high rates of smoking, which is a major risk factor for lung cancer.

The quality of care is also influenced by the availability of community resources. This includes access to transportation to medical appointments, financial assistance programs for treatment costs, and patient navigation services to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Practices that partner with local organizations to provide these resources demonstrate a commitment to addressing the broader needs of their patients.

In summary, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 25534 and primary care availability in Kiahsville requires a thorough evaluation of multiple factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, access to diagnostic tools, and the presence of specialized lung cancer care. The practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, early detection, and holistic patient support are likely to provide the best outcomes for individuals facing this challenging disease.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources and patient demographics within ZIP Code 25534 and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. This platform allows you to visualize data on physician availability, specialist locations, and other relevant factors, providing a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.