25972, Leslie, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25972, Leslie, West Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25972 has some form of health insurance. 69.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.67 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 25972 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25972. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 105 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 25972, Leslie, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score: An Analysis for ZIP Code 25972 and Leslie, WV

This analysis delves into the critical aspects of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 25972 and specifically examines primary care availability in Leslie, West Virginia. We will assess the landscape based on key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective. This score isn't a single number but a holistic evaluation of the resources and infrastructure available to patients facing this challenging disease.

ZIP Code 25972, encompassing a portion of Summers County, West Virginia, presents a unique healthcare environment. Rural areas often face significant challenges in accessing specialized medical care, and lung cancer treatment is no exception. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundational layer of any effective lung cancer care pathway. Early detection through screening programs, facilitated by accessible primary care, is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 25972 is a primary concern. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of available doctors, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer prognoses. The National Rural Health Association data should be consulted to determine the specific ratio for this ZIP code. We must consider the number of active, practicing PCPs, including internal medicine specialists and family medicine practitioners, relative to the population size. This data will provide a baseline understanding of access limitations.

Leslie, a community within the broader area, is vital to this analysis. The availability of primary care within Leslie directly impacts the residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention. The presence of a well-staffed and accessible primary care clinic is paramount. This includes not only the number of physicians but also the availability of nursing staff, support personnel, and the clinic's hours of operation. Long wait times for appointments or limited clinic hours can significantly hinder the early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Standout practices within the region, if any, can serve as models for best practices. These practices might excel in several areas. These might include their commitment to lung cancer screening programs, their integration of patient education materials, and their proactive approach to managing chronic conditions that increase lung cancer risk, such as smoking cessation programs. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing between specialists and PCPs, are also highly desirable. EHRs can improve care coordination, which is essential for patients navigating the complexities of lung cancer treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The geographical isolation often experienced in rural areas makes telemedicine a valuable tool. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and offer remote monitoring of patients' conditions. The availability of telehealth services, including video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve access to care for patients in 25972 and Leslie. The degree to which local practices have embraced telehealth technologies, including the availability of reliable internet access for both patients and providers, will be assessed.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the community or through readily accessible telehealth services, is essential. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes access to support groups, individual therapy, and potentially, psychiatric services.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for this region, therefore, is not a single, easily quantifiable number. Instead, it's a qualitative assessment based on the factors described above. A high score would indicate: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio; a well-established primary care infrastructure in Leslie; the presence of standout practices with a focus on early detection, patient education, and care coordination; a robust telemedicine program; and readily available mental health resources. A low score would indicate the opposite: limited access to care, a lack of preventative programs, and a scarcity of support services.

The data sources used for this analysis would include publicly available information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the National Rural Health Association, and local hospital websites. The accuracy of the analysis is contingent on the availability and reliability of these data sources.

In conclusion, assessing lung cancer care in ZIP Code 25972 and Leslie, WV, requires a comprehensive approach. It necessitates evaluating the accessibility of primary care, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care, leading to earlier diagnoses, improved treatment outcomes, and a better quality of life.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 25972 and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the availability of specific services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain insights.