25844, Glen Daniel, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25844, Glen Daniel, West Virginia is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.61 percent of the residents in 25844 has some form of health insurance. 52.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 38.97 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 25844 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 262 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25844. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,686 health care providers accessible to residents in 25844, Glen Daniel, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Glen Daniel, WV (ZIP Code 25844)

The assessment of lung cancer care accessibility and quality within Glen Daniel, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25844) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a critical entry point for early detection and referral, alongside other factors impacting patient outcomes. We'll delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" for the region.

Glen Daniel, a small community in Raleigh County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. Rural areas often experience shortages of medical professionals, potentially hindering timely diagnosis and treatment. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. National averages provide a benchmark, but the specific ratio within 25844 is crucial. Data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can reveal the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the corresponding population. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing appointments, leading to delayed screenings and diagnoses.

Primary care availability directly impacts lung cancer outcomes. PCPs play a vital role in preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Guidelines from organizations like the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend annual low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, such as current and former smokers. PCPs are responsible for identifying eligible patients, ordering screenings, and coordinating follow-up care. The presence of PCPs willing and able to adhere to these guidelines is paramount.

Identifying standout practices within the Glen Daniel area is essential. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Practices that prioritize patient education, actively promote smoking cessation programs, and maintain robust referral networks to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Researching local healthcare provider websites, patient reviews, and potentially contacting local health advocacy groups can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in improving healthcare access, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially overcoming geographical barriers. For lung cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even consultations with specialists located outside of the immediate area. The level of telemedicine adoption by PCPs in 25844, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is vital for providing support and managing these challenges. The availability of mental health services within the Glen Daniel area, including the presence of mental health professionals in primary care practices, or the accessibility of local mental health clinics, is a critical component of the overall care landscape.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 25844 is a composite measure reflecting all these factors. A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, PCPs actively promoting and providing lung cancer screenings, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score would signal potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive lung cancer care.

Analyzing the specific practices within the area, one might look for practices that are part of larger healthcare systems. These systems often have more resources to invest in technology, staff training, and specialized care. Researching the affiliations of local PCPs can reveal valuable insights into the resources available to patients.

Furthermore, examining the demographics of the patient population is important. The prevalence of smoking, age distribution, and socioeconomic factors can influence the risk of lung cancer and the ability of patients to access care. Data from the US Census Bureau and the WVDHHR can provide valuable insights into these demographics.

The lack of readily available, publicly accessible data makes a definitive "Lung Cancer Score" impossible to calculate without further investigation. However, this analysis provides a framework for assessing the situation. A thorough investigation would involve gathering data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents of Glen Daniel have access to high-quality, comprehensive lung cancer care. This requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. By addressing the challenges and leveraging the strengths of the local healthcare system, we can improve outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources in Glen Daniel and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow for a geographically-based understanding of the healthcare landscape, offering a visual representation of the factors discussed in this analysis.