26142, Davisville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26142, Davisville, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.14 percent of the residents in 26142 has some form of health insurance. 41.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.61 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 26142 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 470 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26142. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 302 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,347 health care providers accessible to residents in 26142, Davisville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score: Analysis for Davisville, WV (ZIP Code 26142)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services in Davisville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26142), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. It aims to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape for residents, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources – all crucial elements in the fight against this devastating disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. Regular check-ups, screenings, and early intervention are paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio in Davisville is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in recruiting and retaining physicians. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This situation underscores the importance of understanding the current state of primary care availability in the area. Investigating the specific ratio, ideally sourced from reliable data such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, is the first step.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are vital. Are there established family medicine practices with a long-standing presence in the community? Do these practices offer comprehensive services, including smoking cessation programs, which are essential for lung cancer prevention? The presence of board-certified physicians, nurses, and support staff contributes to the quality of care. Examining the types of specialists available locally, or within a reasonable commuting distance, is also essential. Access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is crucial for patients requiring specialized treatment. The existence of established referral pathways between primary care physicians and these specialists streamlines the care process, improving patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare, especially in rural settings. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Davisville is a significant factor. Does the area have practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? Telemedicine can facilitate timely access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and specialist consultations. This is especially important for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may face mobility challenges or require frequent monitoring.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis, and the treatment that follows, is profound. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of a comprehensive healthcare system. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, available in Davisville or nearby communities? Do primary care practices collaborate with mental health providers to offer integrated care? Access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services is vital for patients coping with the emotional and psychological challenges of lung cancer. The integration of mental health services into primary care is a best practice, ensuring that patients receive holistic support throughout their journey.

Identifying standout practices within Davisville is essential. Are there any primary care providers that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in lung cancer prevention and early detection? This could include practices that actively promote smoking cessation, offer lung cancer screening programs, or have established relationships with local cancer centers. Recognizing these practices helps to highlight best practices and provides a roadmap for improving the overall quality of care in the area. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care provided by individual practices.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Davisville, therefore, is not a single number but a composite of several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. A higher score reflects a healthcare environment that is better equipped to prevent, detect, and treat lung cancer. A lower score indicates areas where improvements are needed.

Analyzing the data and understanding the local healthcare landscape is the first step. The next step is to take action. Residents of Davisville should actively seek out primary care providers, inquire about their services, and advocate for improved access to care. Local healthcare providers should work together to improve the quality of care, including the adoption of best practices and the integration of mental health services.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Davisville, WV (ZIP Code 26142) requires a nuanced understanding of several factors. The availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial. By understanding these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in their community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Davisville and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care providers, hospitals, and cancer centers, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide valuable insights into healthcare access and availability, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.