25825, Cool Ridge, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25825, Cool Ridge, West Virginia is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.12 percent of the residents in 25825 has some form of health insurance. 35.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.23 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 25825 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 708 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25825. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 465 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,615 health care providers accessible to residents in 25825, Cool Ridge, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cool Ridge, WV (ZIP Code 25825)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 25825, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements for patients facing this challenging disease. The primary focus is on primary care availability in Cool Ridge, West Virginia, a key entry point for early detection and coordinated care.

The overall score for this region is influenced by several intertwined factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and reduced access to specialized care. In Cool Ridge, the rural nature of the area likely presents challenges in this regard. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing publicly available data, such as the US Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards. However, the absence of major hospitals or large medical centers within the immediate vicinity suggests that the ratio may be less favorable compared to more urbanized areas. This initial assessment would negatively impact the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Primary care availability, specifically in Cool Ridge, is paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first line of defense in lung cancer screening and diagnosis. They are responsible for ordering initial tests, such as chest X-rays, and referring patients to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists. The presence of a robust network of PCPs in Cool Ridge, with readily available appointments, is a significant positive factor. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs, or long wait times to see them, could significantly delay diagnosis and treatment, directly impacting patient outcomes and lowering the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within the ZIP code area warrant specific attention. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening, early detection, and patient-centered care is crucial. These practices might implement evidence-based screening guidelines, utilize advanced diagnostic technologies, and actively participate in community outreach programs. Evaluating these practices involves researching their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and assessing their involvement in relevant professional organizations. The presence of such standout practices would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Cool Ridge. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. This can be especially beneficial for lung cancer patients who may need frequent follow-up appointments or access to specialized expertise not readily available locally. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, including the types of consultations offered, the platforms used, and the accessibility of these services to patients. Widespread telemedicine adoption would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying local therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, as well as evaluating the accessibility and affordability of these services. The presence of robust mental health support would significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number; it is a composite of these factors. To calculate it, a weighted scoring system would be employed. Each factor (physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources) would be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance. For example, primary care availability and mental health resources might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, given their direct impact on patient well-being. Each factor would then be assigned a score based on available data and analysis. The overall Lung Cancer Score would be the sum of the weighted scores.

For instance, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score. Conversely, the presence of a practice actively promoting lung cancer screening, with readily available appointments and a focus on patient education, would positively impact the score. The availability of telemedicine consultations with pulmonologists or oncologists would also contribute positively. The presence of a local cancer support group or easy access to mental health professionals would further enhance the score.

The final Lung Cancer Score provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Cool Ridge, WV, specifically related to lung cancer care. It highlights strengths and weaknesses, providing valuable information for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It allows for a data-driven understanding of the resources available and identifies areas needing improvement. This score can be used to track progress over time, measure the impact of interventions, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

This analysis, while providing a framework for assessment, requires further investigation. Accessing and analyzing specific data from various sources is essential to provide a comprehensive and accurate Lung Cancer Score. This includes accessing physician directories, insurance provider networks, and public health data. It also requires engaging with local healthcare providers and community organizations to gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Cool Ridge, WV, and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, providing a clear and intuitive understanding of healthcare access and availability. **Explore the power of spatial data analysis and visualization with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare resources in your community.**