25911, Raleigh, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25911, Raleigh, West Virginia is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.00 percent of the residents in 25911 has some form of health insurance. 67.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.00 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 25911 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 18 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25911. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 71 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 445 health care providers accessible to residents in 25911, Raleigh, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Raleigh, NC (Primary Care & Physician Availability)

This analysis evaluates primary care availability and related factors in Raleigh, North Carolina, with a focus on their potential impact on early lung cancer detection and patient care. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all within the context of improving outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. While a direct “Lung Cancer Score” is not quantifiable in this format, we will provide a comprehensive overview that allows for a qualitative assessment of the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is crucial for improved survival rates. This necessitates readily available primary care physicians (PCPs) who are aware of national guidelines, understand patient risk factors (smoking history, family history, etc.), and can effectively communicate the benefits of screening. The availability of PCPs is a critical first step.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of access. While precise data for Raleigh, NC, and ZIP Code 25911 (which appears to be a typo, as it's a West Virginia ZIP code) is difficult to ascertain without real-time access to specific databases, we can make some generalizations. Nationally, the United States faces a primary care physician shortage, and this can vary significantly by region. Areas with higher ratios (fewer PCPs per capita) often experience longer wait times for appointments, which can delay crucial screenings and follow-up care. Raleigh, being a major metropolitan area, likely has a better ratio than more rural regions, but pockets of underserved populations may still exist.

Standout practices in Raleigh can contribute significantly to the quality of lung cancer care. These practices often demonstrate excellence in several areas. First, they may actively promote lung cancer screening for eligible patients, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to identify high-risk individuals and proactively schedule appointments. Second, they may have established pathways for referral to specialists, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists, ensuring timely and coordinated care. Third, they may participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research. Identifying these high-performing practices requires analyzing patient reviews, physician ratings, and publicly available data on quality metrics.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its benefits are undeniable. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management, reducing the burden on patients, especially those with mobility issues or living in areas with limited access to care. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate communication with their care team, provide emotional support, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly during treatment. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to offer a higher level of convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for supporting patients' emotional well-being. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either directly or through referrals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes access to support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric care, all of which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, is also critical. Pulmonologists are experts in lung health and play a key role in diagnosing and treating lung cancer. The ratio of pulmonologists to the population is a key indicator of access to specialized care. Raleigh, being a major medical hub, likely has a relatively good supply of pulmonologists, but access can still be affected by factors such as insurance coverage and geographic location.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in Raleigh, NC, for its impact on lung cancer care requires a multi-faceted approach. While we can’t provide a single, quantifiable "Lung Cancer Score," we can evaluate the key components: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. These factors collectively determine the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. The more readily available and integrated these resources are, the better the chances of early detection, effective treatment, and improved patient outcomes.

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