26167, Reader, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26167, Reader, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.23 percent of the residents in 26167 has some form of health insurance. 71.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.44 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 26167 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26167. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 300 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 244 health care providers accessible to residents in 26167, Reader, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26167 & Primary Care in Reader**

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP code 26167, Reader, West Virginia, considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. This score aims to offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, focusing on elements that contribute to positive patient outcomes. The analysis incorporates data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of a strong LCS lies in the availability of accessible primary care. In Reader, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, the limited population base within the 26167 ZIP code and the broader geographical area suggests a potential challenge. The scarcity of physicians, coupled with the potential for long travel distances, could hinder timely access to preventative screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, which are vital for early lung cancer detection. This geographical isolation, coupled with the potential for understaffing, could negatively impact the LCS.

Standout practices within the area, if any, would be those demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and management. This includes actively promoting smoking cessation programs, adhering to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for LDCT screening for eligible individuals (those aged 50-80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history, who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years), and establishing efficient referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists. Practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors and screening compliance would also be favorably evaluated. The presence of dedicated care coordinators to navigate patients through the diagnostic and treatment process would significantly enhance the LCS.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the LCS. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and mental health services without the need for extensive travel. Practices that have embraced telehealth platforms for these purposes would receive a higher score. The ability to offer virtual smoking cessation counseling and support groups would further elevate the LCS. The availability of remote patient monitoring for individuals undergoing treatment or managing chronic conditions would also be a positive factor.

The LCS also considers the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that readily offer or refer patients to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, would contribute to a higher score. The integration of mental health screenings into routine primary care visits, and the availability of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families, are essential components of comprehensive care. The ability to connect patients with resources for financial assistance and social support is also a crucial element.

The specific practices within 26167 that excel in these areas are difficult to determine without detailed, up-to-date information. However, the general principles remain: a higher LCS is associated with greater access to primary care, proactive screening and prevention efforts, robust telemedicine capabilities, and comprehensive mental health support. The lack of readily available data on specific practices in Reader limits the ability to provide a precise ranking.

The success of any lung cancer care system hinges on the ability of primary care physicians to identify at-risk patients, facilitate early detection, and provide ongoing support. The geographical limitations of the 26167 ZIP code underscore the importance of maximizing the resources available. The LCS is not a static score; it can be improved through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, the adoption of innovative technologies, and a commitment to patient-centered care. The community's commitment to early detection and support will play a crucial role in improving the outcomes for those diagnosed with lung cancer.

Improving the LCS in Reader requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting screening compliance, expanding telemedicine services, and ensuring access to mental health resources. The ability to connect patients with resources for financial assistance and social support is also a crucial element. The community must work together to provide the best possible care for those affected by lung cancer.

The challenges presented by a rural setting like Reader can be overcome through strategic planning and collaborative efforts. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and compassionate support. The success of these efforts will be reflected in the LCS.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26167, and to visualize the distribution of resources and potential areas for improvement, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for analyzing healthcare data, identifying disparities, and informing strategic decision-making. By visualizing key metrics, such as physician density, access to screening facilities, and patient demographics, CartoChrome maps can help stakeholders develop targeted interventions and improve healthcare outcomes.