26133, Belleville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.21 percent of the residents in 26133 has some form of health insurance. 36.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.72 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 26133 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 266 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26133. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 255 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 26133, Belleville, West Virginia.

The analysis that follows assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer care, specifically focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 26133 and the broader Belleville, West Virginia area. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of lung cancer, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape relevant to lung cancer patients and those at risk.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 26133 and Belleville is the first step. This metric provides a baseline understanding of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially translate into longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing data from sources such as the West Virginia Board of Medicine, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially local hospital systems. This data, however, needs to be contextualized. A low ratio isn't necessarily indicative of poor care if the available physicians are highly skilled and efficient.

The presence of standout practices is another critical factor. These practices often demonstrate excellence in various aspects of patient care, including early detection through advanced imaging techniques like low-dose CT scans, adherence to evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and comprehensive patient support services. Identifying these practices requires examining patient reviews, analyzing physician qualifications and specializations, and investigating the practice’s involvement in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness, should also be considered.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Belleville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services involves investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services provided (e.g., initial consultations, medication management, behavioral therapy), and the ease of access for patients, considering factors like insurance coverage and technological requirements. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients, especially those facing mobility challenges or residing far from medical centers.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves identifying local therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in oncology or chronic illness. It is also important to evaluate whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Practices that prioritize mental health support demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

A deeper dive into specific practices within the area is necessary. This involves reviewing the credentials of the physicians, their specializations (e.g., pulmonology, oncology), and their affiliations with local hospitals. Researching the equipment available at these practices is also essential. Do they have the necessary diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging technology? Are they equipped to provide chemotherapy or other treatments? This information can be found on the practice's website, through online directories, or by contacting the practices directly.

The assessment of primary care availability in Belleville extends beyond the immediate ZIP code. It requires examining the broader network of PCPs in the surrounding areas, considering factors like travel time and transportation options. This is particularly important for patients who may not have easy access to healthcare within their immediate vicinity. Understanding the referral patterns between PCPs and specialists is also vital. Do PCPs have established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer care? Efficient referral processes are critical for ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

The evaluation of primary care in Belleville should also consider the availability of preventative services. Do PCPs offer smoking cessation programs? Are they proactive in screening for lung cancer, particularly for individuals at high risk? Practices that prioritize preventative care are better positioned to identify lung cancer early, when treatment is often more effective. This includes assessing the practice's adherence to guidelines for lung cancer screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

The overall quality of care is also influenced by the level of patient education and support provided. Practices that offer educational resources about lung cancer, treatment options, and supportive care services are more likely to empower patients to actively participate in their care. This can include providing written materials, hosting educational workshops, or connecting patients with support groups. Practices that facilitate communication between patients, their families, and healthcare providers can also improve patient outcomes.

The analysis of lung cancer care in ZIP code 26133 and Belleville is a complex undertaking, requiring the collection and analysis of data from multiple sources. It demands a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including physician availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of lung cancer care in the area.

For a visual representation of this data, a map can significantly aid in understanding the distribution of resources and the accessibility of care. CartoChrome maps offers a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to overlay physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information on a geographic map. This can help you identify areas with limited access to care, pinpoint practices with specialized expertise, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options. Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape of Belleville and beyond.