25649, Verdunville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25649, Verdunville, West Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.68 percent of the residents in 25649 has some form of health insurance. 54.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.66 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 25649 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25649. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 690 health care providers accessible to residents in 25649, Verdunville, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Verdunville, WV (ZIP Code 25649)

Verdunville, West Virginia, a small community nestled in the Appalachian region, faces unique healthcare challenges. This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP code 25649, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and patient support. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of effective lung cancer care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Verdunville is a primary concern. Rural areas often experience a shortage of healthcare professionals, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and limited access to preventative care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally below the national average, indicates a greater likelihood of patients receiving timely appointments and comprehensive care. The current ratio within 25649 needs careful evaluation, considering the potential for long wait times and increased pressure on existing providers. This ratio significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score, as it directly impacts the ability of patients to access crucial screening and diagnostic services.

Standout practices in Verdunville, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to early detection and patient-centered care. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, particularly those with a history of smoking or other risk factors. Practices should have established protocols for referring patients with suspicious findings to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, without unnecessary delays. The Lung Cancer Score rewards practices that have implemented evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and follow-up care, including the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients in rural areas with access to specialists and consultations they might otherwise miss. Practices that offer telehealth appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a higher score. This is especially important for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may find it challenging to travel long distances for routine checkups. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score assesses the availability of mental health services within the practices themselves or through referrals to external providers. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans, either through on-site counselors or partnerships with local mental health professionals, receive a higher score. This holistic approach to patient care is essential for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of individuals battling lung cancer.

Specific practices in Verdunville, if any, should be assessed based on these criteria. The Lung Cancer Score would consider the following:

* **Screening Programs:** Does the practice actively promote lung cancer screening with LDCT scans for eligible patients?
* **Referral Processes:** Are there established protocols for timely referrals to pulmonologists and oncologists?
* **Telemedicine Capabilities:** Does the practice offer telemedicine appointments for follow-up visits or consultations?
* **Mental Health Integration:** Does the practice provide mental health support or referrals to external providers?
* **Patient Education:** Does the practice offer educational materials and resources about lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment?
* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** What is the ratio within the practice and the overall ZIP code?
* **Patient Satisfaction:** What is the patient satisfaction rating for the practice?

The evaluation would involve gathering data from various sources, including practice websites, patient surveys, and interviews with healthcare providers. The Lung Cancer Score would be a composite score, reflecting the practice's performance across all the above-mentioned factors.

The impact of these factors on the Lung Cancer Score is significant. A practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, a strong screening program, robust telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health support would receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with limited resources, delayed referral processes, and no mental health support would receive a lower score. The score provides a valuable tool for patients in Verdunville to assess the quality of lung cancer care available in their community.

The analysis also considers the broader context of primary care availability in Verdunville. The overall availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A shortage of primary care providers can exacerbate the challenges of early detection and timely diagnosis. The Lung Cancer Score takes into account the overall accessibility of primary care services within the ZIP code.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score provides a comprehensive assessment of the quality of lung cancer care available to residents of Verdunville, WV (25649). By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, the score empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It also highlights areas where improvements are needed to enhance the quality of lung cancer care in this rural community.

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