26184, Waverly, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26184, Waverly, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 26184 has some form of health insurance. 32.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.84 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 26184 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 861 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26184. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 481 health care providers accessible to residents in 26184, Waverly, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26184 & Waverly Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly in the context of lung cancer, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 26184, encompassing Waverly, West Virginia, and examines the availability of primary care physicians, a critical factor in early detection and management of this disease. We will evaluate the 'Lung Cancer Score' for this area, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for patient well-being.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Early detection through screening, patient education, and risk factor assessment are primary care physician responsibilities. In Waverly, the physician-to-patient ratio is a significant consideration. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall trend in rural areas often reveals a shortage of primary care providers compared to urban centers. This scarcity demands innovative solutions to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility.

Examining specific medical practices within ZIP code 26184 is vital. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their patient-centered care models, their commitment to preventative medicine, and their adoption of evidence-based practices. A practice demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, such as recommending low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, would receive a higher score. Similarly, practices that offer comprehensive smoking cessation programs, addressing a key risk factor, contribute positively to the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.' The presence of specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technology, also enhances a practice's rating.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly crucial role, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with specialists, receive consultations, and monitor their health remotely, reducing the need for lengthy travel and potentially easing the burden on overburdened primary care providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, receive a higher score. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients, including access to pulmonologists and oncology specialists, significantly improves the 'Lung Cancer Score.' The integration of telehealth also provides opportunities for patient education and support groups, further enhancing the care continuum.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can profoundly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges associated with the disease. The availability of these resources within the Waverly area, either directly within medical practices or through referrals to external providers, is a key factor in determining the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Support groups and educational programs focused on mental health further enhance the care provided.

Furthermore, the 'Lung Cancer Score' considers the availability of specialized cancer care. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The proximity of specialized cancer centers, the availability of clinical trials, and the overall quality of cancer care services in the region all contribute to the score. The ability of local primary care physicians to effectively coordinate care with these specialists is also a critical factor.

The quality of the healthcare infrastructure, including hospitals and diagnostic centers, also influences the 'Lung Cancer Score.' The availability of advanced imaging equipment, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with experienced medical professionals significantly improves the outlook for patients. The efficiency of the healthcare system, including appointment scheduling and communication between providers, is also a factor.

Evaluating the 'Lung Cancer Score' requires a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waverly. This includes not only the availability of physicians and resources but also the quality of care, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health support. The score is a dynamic metric that can be improved through proactive measures, such as recruiting more primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing access to mental health resources.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for ZIP code 26184, including Waverly, reflects the current state of healthcare access and quality in relation to lung cancer care. The score is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. Addressing any shortcomings in these areas is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall well-being of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waverly and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore interactive maps and data visualizations. **Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.**