26181, Washington, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26181, Washington, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 26181 has some form of health insurance. 47.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.62 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 26181 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,435 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26181. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,859 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 412 health care providers accessible to residents in 26181, Washington, West Virginia.

The assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP code 26181, coupled with an evaluation of primary care access across Washington, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" for physicians in the specified area, considering factors crucial for effective patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine integration, and mental health support.

ZIP code 26181, encompassing the town of Vienna, West Virginia, presents a specific healthcare landscape. The Lung Cancer Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment derived from evaluating available data. A critical component is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio requires identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the local population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential for this calculation.

Primary care availability across the state of Washington presents a broader picture. Washington, like many states, faces challenges in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Assessing primary care involves examining the distribution of PCPs, specialists, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. This includes the presence of hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. The state's Department of Health and the Washington State Medical Association provide valuable resources for this analysis.

Standout practices within ZIP code 26181, or in the surrounding areas if data is limited, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This involves not only skilled pulmonologists but also access to diagnostic imaging (CT scans, PET scans), surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and chemotherapy services. Practices excelling in these areas would be identified through patient reviews, physician referrals, and the availability of specialized equipment. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives contribute to the advancement of lung cancer treatment and would be highly regarded.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring can significantly improve patient access to care, especially in rural areas or for patients with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, integrating it seamlessly into their workflow, are likely to score higher in the Lung Cancer Score. This includes the use of secure video conferencing platforms, remote patient monitoring devices, and electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate virtual interactions.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound emotional impact on patients and their families. Practices that offer or connect patients with mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health providers. Integration of mental health services into the treatment plan is a key indicator of quality care.

For the Washington state assessment, primary care access is a critical factor. The Lung Cancer Score for the state must consider the distribution of primary care physicians, particularly in underserved areas. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may experience delayed diagnoses and treatment, impacting patient outcomes. Data from the Washington State Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can help identify these areas.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, across the state. The concentration of these specialists in urban areas can create disparities in access to care for patients in rural communities. Telemedicine can help bridge this gap, but it is not a perfect solution.

The Lung Cancer Score will be based on the availability of comprehensive lung cancer services, including diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and chemotherapy. The presence of accredited cancer centers, participation in clinical trials, and the use of advanced treatment modalities, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, will also be considered.

The assessment of primary care availability in Washington will include an evaluation of the state's efforts to expand access to care, such as the use of telehealth and the development of community health centers. The state's initiatives to address health disparities and improve health outcomes for underserved populations will also be considered.

The Lung Cancer Score for physicians in ZIP code 26181 and the broader assessment of primary care availability in Washington will be a dynamic process. Data availability changes, and healthcare practices evolve. Regular updates and revisions are essential to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

In conclusion, the evaluation of lung cancer care in ZIP code 26181 and primary care access in Washington requires a comprehensive examination of various factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, practice excellence, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While a definitive numerical score is not feasible without extensive, proprietary data, the qualitative assessment provides a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of these healthcare dynamics, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help visualize physician distribution, practice locations, and access to care, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving healthcare access.