25565, Spurlockville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25565, Spurlockville, West Virginia is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.56 percent of the residents in 25565 has some form of health insurance. 66.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.41 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 25565 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25565. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 88 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 573 health care providers accessible to residents in 25565, Spurlockville, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Spurlockville (ZIP Code 25565)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of healthcare resources in Spurlockville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25565), focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The objective is to evaluate the availability and accessibility of critical services, particularly for primary care and related support, ultimately contributing to a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area. While a definitive numerical score is difficult to assign without comprehensive data access, this report will outline key considerations and identify areas of strength and weakness.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Spurlockville, the ratio likely presents a challenge. Rural areas often face physician shortages, and this directly impacts access to care. Limited PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The analysis would ideally incorporate data on the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the average patient load per physician, and the average wait time for new patient appointments.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. Does the area have PCPs with specialized training or experience in pulmonology or oncology? Are practices equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scanners, which are essential for early lung cancer detection? Furthermore, the availability of smoking cessation programs within primary care practices is a vital component. These programs, often integrated into routine check-ups, can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer and improve overall health outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within Spurlockville is essential. This requires evaluating the practices' infrastructure, services, and patient outcomes. Are there any multi-specialty clinics that offer a comprehensive approach to care, including primary care, pulmonology, and potentially even oncology services? Do these practices have a proven track record of patient satisfaction and positive health outcomes? Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data on quality metrics (if available) can help identify practices that excel in providing patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to expertise that might not be readily available locally. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, particularly for pulmonology consultations, smoking cessation counseling, and mental health support. Examining the types of telemedicine platforms used, the availability of telehealth appointments, and the patient experience with these services are key considerations.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. The stress of diagnosis, the side effects of treatment, and the fear of recurrence can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis should investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the ZIP code or easily accessible within a reasonable travel distance.

Furthermore, the analysis should assess the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to lung cancer patients and their families. These resources can provide invaluable emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Partnerships between primary care practices, local hospitals, and mental health providers are often crucial in ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

The analysis should also consider the availability of palliative care services. Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. It is particularly important for patients with advanced lung cancer. The presence of palliative care specialists, hospice services, and pain management programs within the area can significantly improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

The availability of transportation services is another critical factor. Many lung cancer patients experience fatigue and other symptoms that make it difficult to travel to appointments. The analysis should investigate the availability of transportation assistance programs, such as ride-sharing services, volunteer driver programs, and public transportation options.

Finally, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to healthy food and housing can all contribute to poorer health outcomes. The analysis should consider the demographics of Spurlockville, including the poverty rate, the percentage of uninsured residents, and the availability of social services.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare resources in Spurlockville (ZIP Code 25565) requires a multifaceted approach. While the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a challenge, the presence of telemedicine, standout practices, and comprehensive mental health resources could positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score." Further investigation into these areas, along with consideration of socioeconomic factors, is essential for a complete assessment.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Spurlockville and other locations, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help visualize physician density, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable resource for healthcare providers, patients, and community members alike.