26260, Davis, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26260, Davis, West Virginia is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 26260 has some form of health insurance. 44.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.02 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 26260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 88 health care providers accessible to residents in 26260, Davis, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score: Analyzing Healthcare Landscape in ZIP Code 26260 and Davis, WV

This analysis delves into the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 26260, focusing on its suitability for lung cancer patients and the availability of primary care services in Davis, West Virginia. We will explore key factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The first crucial aspect is physician availability. Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP Code 26260 is paramount. This ratio, encompassing primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists, dictates the accessibility of specialized care. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment delays, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access and potentially improved care. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, combined with information from the American Medical Association and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, will be crucial in determining this ratio. Specific numbers are essential for an accurate assessment.

Primary care availability in Davis, a key component of the overall score, is equally important. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to conduct initial screenings, refer patients to specialists, and provide ongoing care significantly impacts the patient journey. The proximity of primary care facilities to Davis residents, the availability of same-day appointments, and the breadth of services offered all contribute to the primary care score. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians practicing within a reasonable radius of Davis and the patient load they carry is vital.

Standout practices within the area will be evaluated based on their commitment to lung cancer care. This includes the presence of multidisciplinary teams, comprising pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses specializing in cancer care. Practices with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as access to state-of-the-art imaging equipment (CT scans, PET scans), and minimally invasive surgical techniques, will receive higher scores. The accreditation status of these practices, particularly by organizations like the Commission on Cancer, is a significant indicator of quality and adherence to best practices. We will examine the number of patients treated for lung cancer annually by these practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in remote areas like Davis to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms for patient care will be recognized for their commitment to accessibility. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists, is a significant advantage. We will assess the types of telehealth services offered and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial component of cancer care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential for supporting patients through their journey. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers will be viewed favorably. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, will also be considered. Examining the availability of mental health professionals specializing in oncology and the waiting times for appointments is crucial.

To calculate the "Lung Cancer Score," a weighted scoring system will be employed. Each of the factors discussed – physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – will be assigned a weight based on its perceived importance. The score will be a composite, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the area. The final score will be presented as a numerical value, with a corresponding qualitative assessment (e.g., Excellent, Good, Fair, Poor). The analysis will also highlight specific areas for improvement.

The analysis will also consider any ongoing research or clinical trials related to lung cancer treatment being conducted in the region. Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies and contribute to advancements in lung cancer care. The presence of research facilities and the involvement of local physicians in clinical trials will positively influence the score.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact health outcomes. This includes the prevalence of smoking, the rate of poverty, and the level of health insurance coverage in the area. These factors can influence a patient's risk of developing lung cancer and their ability to access care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is intended to be a dynamic assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and resources emerging. The score will be updated periodically to reflect these changes and provide the most current and accurate information. The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their care and to identify areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and further understand the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 26260 and Davis, WV, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to explore physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant information in an interactive and user-friendly format. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and to make informed decisions about your health.