25676, Lenore, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25676, Lenore, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.60 percent of the residents in 25676 has some form of health insurance. 41.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.09 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 25676 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25676. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 134 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 361 health care providers accessible to residents in 25676, Lenore, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25676 & Lenore, WV

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 25676, specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will examine the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial element in early diagnosis, and assess the overall healthcare ecosystem in Lenore, WV, to provide a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score assessment.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer strategy lies in robust primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. In Lenore, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can translate to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Researching the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the estimated population, is the initial step. Public health data, county health department reports, and information from the West Virginia Board of Medicine can provide this baseline data.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are equally important. Are there practices accepting new patients? What are the wait times for appointments? Do the practices offer extended hours or weekend availability to accommodate patients' schedules? These factors directly impact the likelihood of individuals seeking timely medical attention. Furthermore, the presence of integrated electronic health records (EHRs) is a significant advantage. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists, streamlining referrals and ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

Once primary care availability is assessed, the analysis must consider the presence of specialists. While PCPs are critical for initial screening and referral, the availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. Proximity to specialized cancer centers is a vital factor. The distance patients must travel for advanced treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, significantly impacts their quality of life and treatment adherence. Are there any cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance? Are there any affiliations with larger hospitals or medical systems that offer specialized lung cancer programs?

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources without requiring them to travel long distances. Assessing the extent to which practices in ZIP code 25676 utilize telemedicine platforms is vital. Do PCPs offer virtual appointments? Are specialists available for telemedicine consultations? The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas with limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community is essential. Are there mental health services integrated into primary care practices? Are there support groups for cancer patients and their families? Access to mental health support can significantly improve patients' emotional well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of their illness.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 25676 is a key part of the analysis. This involves looking beyond the basic metrics and assessing the quality of care provided. Are there any practices that have received recognition for their patient-centered approach? Do they have positive patient reviews? Do they actively participate in community outreach programs related to lung cancer awareness and prevention? Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence can provide valuable insights for patients seeking quality care.

The evaluation must also consider the socio-economic factors that can impact lung cancer outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited transportation options can all contribute to disparities in care. Understanding the socio-economic profile of the population within ZIP code 25676 is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Are there any community health initiatives aimed at addressing these disparities? Are there programs that provide financial assistance to patients for transportation or medication costs?

Furthermore, the analysis needs to examine the local health infrastructure. This includes the availability of diagnostic equipment, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites. Are these resources readily accessible? Are the facilities equipped with the latest technology? The availability of state-of-the-art equipment is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Finally, the analysis should explore the presence of community support organizations. These organizations provide valuable resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance, to lung cancer patients and their families. Are there any local chapters of national cancer organizations? Are there any community-based programs that provide support services? The availability of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to navigate the challenges of their illness.

The Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 25676 will be determined by weighting these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of community support organizations will all contribute to the final score. The score will reflect the overall healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address the needs of lung cancer patients.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 25676 and Lenore, WV, and to compare it with other areas, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visualize complex data, such as physician density, specialist availability, and the location of cancer centers, providing a comprehensive and easily understandable overview of the healthcare ecosystem. Use CartoChrome maps to identify areas with high lung cancer risk and to see where healthcare resources are most needed.