25984, Rupert, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25984, Rupert, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.89 percent of the residents in 25984 has some form of health insurance. 66.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.82 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 25984 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 488 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25984. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 177 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 197 health care providers accessible to residents in 25984, Rupert, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rupert, WV (ZIP Code 25984)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within and serving ZIP code 25984 (Rupert, West Virginia), focusing on factors crucial to early detection, diagnosis, and patient support. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, integration of technology, and access to mental health services – all vital components in improving lung cancer outcomes. This analysis is not a definitive ranking but an informed overview based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions.

The core of a strong LCS lies in the availability of accessible primary care. In Rupert, a rural community, physician-to-patient ratios are likely a significant factor. National averages often don’t reflect the reality on the ground. A lower physician-to-patient ratio is generally desirable, meaning more doctors per capita, which can translate to shorter wait times for appointments, more personalized care, and increased opportunities for preventative screenings, including those crucial for lung cancer detection. Information on the exact ratio in 25984 is critical. Public health data, local hospital reports, and state medical board records are key sources to determine this ratio accurately. Without this specific data, it is challenging to provide a precise score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the existing practices are essential. Are the PCPs in Rupert accepting new patients? Are they actively promoting and facilitating lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for eligible patients (current or former smokers with a significant smoking history)? Do the practices have established protocols for referring patients with suspicious findings to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists? The presence of these protocols significantly impacts the LCS. Practices with proactive screening programs and efficient referral pathways would receive a higher score.

Another critical element is the adoption of technology, particularly telemedicine. Telemedicine offers several advantages in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing travel time and associated costs. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment or recovery. Practices utilizing telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would enhance their LCS. The availability of patient portals for accessing medical records and communicating with providers is another positive indicator.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and the treatment that follows, can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house counselors or partnerships with local mental health providers, would receive a higher LCS. This integration could involve screening for mental health issues, offering counseling services, and providing referrals to support groups. The availability of these resources, coupled with a supportive and empathetic care environment, is crucial for patient well-being.

Identifying standout practices in Rupert requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Factors to consider include the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of ancillary services (such as on-site lab testing), and patient satisfaction ratings. Publicly available information, such as online reviews, can provide insights into patient experiences. Practices with a strong reputation for patient care, a commitment to preventative screenings, and a focus on patient education would be considered high-performing and would elevate the overall LCS for the area.

The absence of comprehensive data poses a challenge. Publicly available information on physician-to-patient ratios, practice-specific screening protocols, and telemedicine adoption rates in Rupert may be limited. This underscores the importance of further investigation, including contacting local healthcare providers and consulting with regional healthcare authorities. A more comprehensive analysis would involve gathering data on the specific services offered by each practice, the availability of specialized equipment, and the integration of technology.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial factor. Does the local hospital or clinics offer mental health services, either in-house or through partnerships? Are there support groups for cancer patients and their families? The existence of these resources would positively impact the LCS.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care in Rupert, WV (25984) is contingent upon several factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics (screening protocols, referral pathways), telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to a comprehensive assessment. Without specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, screening practices, telemedicine utilization, and mental health integration, a precise score is difficult to determine. However, by evaluating these key components, a clearer picture of the quality of care and the potential for early detection and improved outcomes for lung cancer patients in Rupert can be achieved.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare resources and physician locations in the area, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, hospitals, and other relevant resources in Rupert and surrounding areas. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.