25938, Victor, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25938, Victor, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.01 percent of the residents in 25938 has some form of health insurance. 57.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.14 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 25938 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25938. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 292 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 307 health care providers accessible to residents in 25938, Victor, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Victor, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25938)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of lung cancer care accessibility and related resources within ZIP code 25938, encompassing the Victor, West Virginia area. It focuses on primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and other factors influencing patient outcomes. The goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for this region, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with robust primary care. In Victor, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts early detection and timely referrals. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, crucial for detecting lung cancer in its early stages. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling, suggests a more favorable environment for proactive healthcare. Data on the current physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 25938 is essential for a precise score. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) should be consulted. This data will need to be compared against state and national averages to establish a baseline for the score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Standout practices are those that prioritize preventative care, actively promote smoking cessation programs, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education. These practices often have dedicated staff trained in lung cancer screening protocols and can effectively guide patients through the diagnostic process. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists is also a key indicator of a well-functioning healthcare system. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate positive patient outcomes should be recognized as valuable assets.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas like Victor to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health support without extensive travel. The availability of telehealth services for pulmonology, oncology, and mental health is particularly relevant. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing far from major medical centers. The extent of telemedicine integration within the primary care practices in Victor, along with the availability of telehealth options from specialists in the region, will be assessed.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but vital component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its 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 throughout their journey. The availability of these services within the local healthcare system, including the acceptance of insurance, is a key component of the Lung Cancer Score. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or strong referral pathways to mental health providers, will positively impact the score. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also play a crucial role in providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community.

The Lung Cancer Score must also consider the availability of specialized cancer care services. This includes access to oncologists, pulmonologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The proximity of these specialists to Victor, and the efficiency of referral pathways, are important factors. The presence of a local cancer center or affiliation with a larger regional cancer network can significantly improve patient outcomes. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and advanced imaging technologies, is also critical.

Furthermore, the score must consider the patient’s financial burden. The affordability of healthcare services, including the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs, can significantly impact access to care. Practices that offer financial counseling and actively work to reduce patient costs are highly valued. The availability of resources to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, such as patient navigators, is also a key factor.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Victor, West Virginia (ZIP code 25938) is a multifaceted assessment. It requires a deep dive into the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the availability of specialized cancer care, and the financial accessibility of healthcare. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Victor, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Victor, including physician locations, access to services, and population demographics, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to visualize the data points mentioned above, providing a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.