26205, Craigsville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26205, Craigsville, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.43 percent of the residents in 26205 has some form of health insurance. 49.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.32 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 26205 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 510 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26205. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 676 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 159 health care providers accessible to residents in 26205, Craigsville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Craigsville, WV (ZIP Code 26205)**

The analysis focuses on the availability and quality of healthcare resources within the 26205 ZIP code, specifically examining factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support, with a focus on primary care. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and exploring the availability of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, recognizing the critical role of primary care in early detection and comprehensive patient management.

Craigsville, West Virginia, is a rural community. The healthcare landscape is likely shaped by factors common in such areas: limited resources, potential challenges in access, and the importance of strong primary care networks. The "Lung Cancer Score" reflects these realities.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

One of the most fundamental indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts the ability of individuals to secure timely appointments, receive regular screenings, and establish ongoing relationships with healthcare providers. In a rural setting like Craigsville, the physician-to-patient ratio might be significantly higher than in urban areas, potentially leading to longer wait times and reduced access to specialized care. The score will reflect the estimated ratio, drawing on publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA).

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly crucial. PCPs serve as the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in preventative care, early detection of lung cancer symptoms, and referrals to specialists. The score will consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, accounting for factors like age and specialization.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various aspects of care delivery. This includes assessing the quality of diagnostic services, such as access to advanced imaging technologies (CT scans, PET scans), and the availability of on-site or readily accessible laboratory services for biopsies and other diagnostic tests. The score will also consider the practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment.

Another critical factor is the practice’s patient-centered approach. This encompasses factors like the ability to provide clear and concise communication with patients, offering culturally sensitive care, and coordinating care with other specialists. Practices with strong patient satisfaction scores and positive online reviews will receive higher scores in this category.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times for consultations. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the extent to which practices in the area have adopted telemedicine technologies.

The score will consider the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of these platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care delivery models will receive higher scores, reflecting their commitment to improving patient access and convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Support**

A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among cancer patients. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health resources in the area, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups.

The score will consider the number of mental health providers available, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the integration of mental health services within the primary care setting. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will receive higher scores, reflecting their commitment to holistic patient care.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Conclusion**

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite metric, derived from the weighted evaluation of the factors discussed above. The score will be presented on a scale, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare resources available in Craigsville, WV (26205). A higher score indicates better access to care, higher quality of services, and a more supportive environment for lung cancer patients.

The analysis recognizes that healthcare landscapes are dynamic. The "Lung Cancer Score" is a snapshot in time. Regular updates are essential to reflect changes in the availability of providers, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Craigsville, WV (26205) and surrounding areas, including detailed mapping of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.