25839, Fairdale, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25839, Fairdale, West Virginia is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.11 percent of the residents in 25839 has some form of health insurance. 53.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.21 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 25839 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 94 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25839. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,656 health care providers accessible to residents in 25839, Fairdale, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fairdale, WV (ZIP Code 25839)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 25839 (Fairdale, West Virginia) with a focus on factors pertinent to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the community's capacity to support patients facing this disease.

Fairdale, a small community nestled in the Appalachian region, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The geographic isolation and economic factors prevalent in this area significantly impact the availability and quality of medical services. A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics is crucial for evaluating the community's preparedness to address the complexities of lung cancer.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are critical for improving patient outcomes. However, rural areas often face shortages of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Fairdale is a primary concern. National averages are not always applicable here, as the area may have fewer physicians per capita than more populated regions. Researching the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, or in nearby areas that serve Fairdale residents, is essential. This data, combined with the population figures, will yield a physician-to-patient ratio, providing a crucial metric for evaluating access to care. A low ratio (indicating fewer physicians per patient) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing preventative care.

Furthermore, the types of primary care providers available must be considered. Are there family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants? A diverse team of providers can increase access to care.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Services:**

Identifying any standout practices or clinics within or near Fairdale is vital. Are there any practices with a demonstrated focus on preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs? Do any facilities offer comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scans and bronchoscopies, which are essential for early detection? The presence of these services significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of oncologists and pulmonologists in the immediate vicinity is also critical. Lung cancer treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology. The absence of these specialists necessitates travel to larger cities, which can be a significant barrier for patients, especially those with limited mobility or transportation challenges. Assessing the proximity and accessibility of these specialized services is a critical factor.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a significant positive factor. Does any primary care or specialty practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and facilitate access to specialists who may not be physically present in the area. The availability of telehealth services directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for patient well-being. Does the community have readily accessible mental health services? Are there support groups specifically for cancer patients or their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan significantly improves the quality of life for patients. A lack of mental health support would negatively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

**Overall Assessment and Scoring:**

Based on the factors discussed above, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Fairdale can be formulated. This score would reflect the community's strengths and weaknesses in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. A higher score would indicate greater access to primary care, specialized services, telemedicine, and mental health resources. A lower score would highlight potential challenges and areas for improvement.

The scoring system could be weighted based on the relative importance of each factor. For example, primary care availability and the presence of specialized oncology services might be given higher weight than telemedicine adoption, although the latter is still important. The final score would serve as a valuable tool for assessing the community's preparedness to address lung cancer and for identifying areas where resources and support are most needed.

**Specific Considerations for Fairdale:**

Given the rural nature of Fairdale, transportation is likely a significant barrier to accessing care. The analysis must consider the availability of public transportation or other transportation assistance programs. The economic status of the population is another crucial factor. Low-income individuals may face additional challenges in accessing care, including the cost of transportation, medication, and treatment. The analysis must consider these socioeconomic factors and their impact on patient outcomes.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in Fairdale, West Virginia, concerning lung cancer care. By assessing primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive understanding of the community's strengths and weaknesses can be achieved. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources, and improve the quality of care for individuals facing this challenging disease.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Fairdale and surrounding areas, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you identify areas of high need and highlight existing resources.