25958, Charmco, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25958, Charmco, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.21 percent of the residents in 25958 has some form of health insurance. 74.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.45 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 25958 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25958. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 113 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 104 health care providers accessible to residents in 25958, Charmco, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Charmco, WV (ZIP Code 25958)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of factors influencing lung cancer care within ZIP code 25958 (Charmco, West Virginia), focusing on physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and patient support. The ultimate goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

**Physician Availability and Ratios**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Charmco, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists actively practicing within the ZIP code or readily accessible to its residents. Data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine, coupled with information from insurance providers, is essential for this calculation.

A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. Long wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased travel distances can all negatively impact patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, especially for PCPs, can improve early detection through regular screenings and referrals.

The analysis must also consider the age and experience of the physicians. A younger physician pool might be more receptive to adopting the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment, while seasoned practitioners often possess a wealth of experience and established patient relationships.

**Primary Care Availability and its Impact**

Primary care physicians play a vital role in lung cancer prevention and early detection. Their ability to conduct thorough examinations, order appropriate screenings (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and refer patients to specialists is paramount. The availability of accessible and affordable primary care services is a key indicator of the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Factors influencing primary care availability include the number of clinics, their operating hours, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. The physical accessibility of these clinics, including transportation options for patients, is also a critical consideration, particularly in a rural area like Charmco.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices within or serving the Charmco area is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in lung cancer care, such as implementing comprehensive screening programs, utilizing advanced diagnostic technologies, and offering multidisciplinary treatment approaches.

The analysis should examine these practices' patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and patient satisfaction scores. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide robust support services, and actively participate in clinical trials are particularly noteworthy. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other healthcare providers in the area.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine services by healthcare providers in and around Charmco is crucial. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists.

Telemedicine can help reduce travel burdens, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients. The analysis should evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered, the technologies used, and the patient and provider satisfaction with these services.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health resources and patient support services is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. This includes access to mental health professionals, support groups, counseling services, and palliative care programs.

The analysis should assess the availability of these resources within the community, their accessibility, and their integration into the overall cancer care pathway. Strong support systems can improve patients' quality of life, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance their ability to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease.

**Specific Considerations for Charmco**

Given the rural nature of Charmco, specific challenges and opportunities must be considered. Transportation limitations, broadband access, and the availability of specialized medical equipment may pose unique hurdles.

The analysis should examine the impact of these factors on lung cancer care. For example, the availability of mobile screening units or partnerships with regional hospitals can help overcome geographical barriers. Strategies to improve broadband access and promote telehealth adoption are also critical.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score Assessment**

Based on the evaluation of these factors, an overall Lung Cancer Score can be assigned to Charmco (ZIP code 25958). This score should reflect the area's strengths and weaknesses in providing comprehensive lung cancer care. The score should be based on a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment.

The Lung Cancer Score should be accompanied by specific recommendations for improvement. These recommendations may include strategies to increase physician availability, expand telemedicine services, enhance mental health resources, and improve patient access to care.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Understanding the nuances of lung cancer care in Charmco is vital for improving patient outcomes. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the current state of healthcare resources and identifying areas for improvement.

To further explore the spatial relationships and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to leverage the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping tools can help you visualize physician distribution, healthcare access, and other critical factors influencing lung cancer care in Charmco and beyond. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome today!