26217, Diana, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26217, Diana, West Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 58.04 percent of the residents in 26217 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.04 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 26217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 201 health care providers accessible to residents in 26217, Diana, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 26217, focusing on physician availability, primary care resources in Diana, and related factors. This evaluation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The scope includes physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of comprehensive cancer care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In 26217, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio likely presents a challenge. The availability of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists directly impacts the timeliness and quality of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. A low ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, enabling earlier detection and more effective management of the disease. Specific data on physician numbers within the ZIP code, compared to the local population, would be essential to determine the exact ratio. However, the rural setting suggests that the ratio is probably lower than the national average.

Primary care availability in Diana is another critical aspect of this assessment. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. They play a crucial role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. The presence of robust primary care services in Diana, including family medicine practices and internal medicine clinics, is vital. The geographic proximity of these services to the residents of 26217 significantly impacts their ability to access care. A lack of accessible primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses and a higher burden on emergency services. The availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and walk-in clinics further enhances accessibility.

Identifying standout practices within 26217 is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in various areas, such as early detection, advanced treatment modalities, or patient-centered care. Practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, are particularly valuable. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive support services, including patient navigation, support groups, and palliative care, contribute significantly to the overall quality of care. Researching the specific practices within the area, examining their patient reviews, and assessing their accreditations can help identify these standout providers.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine consultations for pulmonology, oncology, and other relevant specialties can significantly benefit patients in 26217. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. The extent of telemedicine adoption within the area, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is an important factor in evaluating the overall healthcare landscape. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and reduce the need for travel.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential. These resources can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression associated with their illness. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the area is crucial. Integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The availability of these resources in Diana, and the ease of access for patients in 26217, is a key consideration.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in 26217 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability in Diana, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The interplay of these factors determines the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to patients. Addressing any identified gaps and promoting improvements in these areas is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall healthcare experience. The rural nature of this area presents specific challenges, but also opportunities for innovative solutions.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 26217, including physician locations, primary care facilities, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in this area.