26236, Selbyville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26236 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26236 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26236. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,643 health care providers accessible to residents in 26236, Selbyville, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score: A Deep Dive into Healthcare in Selbyville, WV (ZIP Code 26236)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning a serious illness like lung cancer, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 26236, specifically Selbyville, West Virginia, considering factors crucial for timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support. Our "Lung Cancer Score" considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a patient's journey.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on readily accessible primary care. Selbyville, a relatively rural community, faces challenges common to such areas. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a primary concern. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, poorer outcomes for those suspected of or battling lung cancer. Evaluating the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, alongside the estimated population, provides a crucial initial benchmark. Further research into the operational hours, appointment availability, and acceptance of new patients by these practices is essential.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are the existing PCPs equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, or do they have established referral pathways to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons? This network is vital for prompt and accurate diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. Assessing the integration of these specialists into the local healthcare ecosystem is a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in patient care, significantly influence the overall score. Identifying practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, utilizing advanced imaging technologies like low-dose CT scans, and adhering to evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment would elevate the score. These practices often possess experienced medical teams, including nurses, respiratory therapists, and support staff, specifically trained in the nuances of lung cancer care. Examining patient testimonials and practice accreditations from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) provides valuable insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Selbyville access to specialists who might not be physically located within the ZIP code. This includes consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the ease of access, and the integration of these services into existing healthcare workflows contributes significantly to the Lung Cancer Score. Does the local healthcare system proactively promote telemedicine, or is it a nascent, underutilized resource?

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of our analysis. Patients require access to therapists, counselors, and support groups to navigate the psychological challenges associated with the disease. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, the availability of counseling services, and the existence of local support groups specifically for cancer patients and their families directly impacts the score. Are these resources easily accessible, affordable, and integrated into the patient's overall care plan?

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score must consider the presence of ancillary services. Access to smoking cessation programs, crucial for prevention and support, is vital. The availability of palliative care services, focused on symptom management and improving quality of life, is equally important. These services, often overlooked, play a significant role in the overall well-being of patients and their families.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios requires a detailed examination of the available data. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the West Virginia Board of Medicine can provide insights into the number of licensed physicians practicing within the ZIP code. However, these figures must be interpreted with caution, as they don't always reflect the availability of physicians accepting new patients or the scope of their practices. Therefore, supplementing this data with information from local healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and community surveys is essential.

The challenges of rural healthcare often necessitate creative solutions. Exploring partnerships between local healthcare providers and larger regional medical centers, including the use of mobile health clinics, can improve access to specialized care. Investigating the presence of these partnerships and their impact on patient outcomes is a crucial element of the Lung Cancer Score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for Selbyville, WV (ZIP Code 26236) is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the ongoing evolution of healthcare resources. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and ancillary services. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses, highlighting areas where improvements are needed to ensure optimal lung cancer care for the residents of Selbyville.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Selbyville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographics, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into easily understandable visual insights.