26267, Ellamore, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 26267 has some form of health insurance. 29.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.62 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 26267 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 368 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26267. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 26 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 554 health care providers accessible to residents in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ellamore, WV (ZIP Code 26267)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within the Ellamore, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26267) area, focusing on primary care availability and the quality of care provided by local physicians. The goal is to offer insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of healthcare services for individuals concerned about lung cancer, including preventative measures, diagnosis, and treatment support. The analysis considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Ellamore, and the surrounding areas encompassed by ZIP code 26267, assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. This involves analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio, a metric that indicates the number of patients served by each PCP. A lower ratio generally signifies better access to care, allowing physicians more time to dedicate to individual patient needs, including preventative screenings, early diagnosis, and ongoing management of chronic conditions. Data on this ratio, ideally, would be obtained from reliable sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or national databases such as the Association of American Medical Colleges. A high ratio could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving comprehensive care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Ellamore is crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the accreditation status of the practice, the experience and specialization of the physicians, and the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment, such as low-dose CT scanners, which are vital for early lung cancer detection. Patient satisfaction surveys, readily available online through sources like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with physicians, and overall satisfaction with the care received. Practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction and a commitment to quality care should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor in enhancing access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Ellamore. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The analysis should identify which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the platforms used. Furthermore, assessing the availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is crucial, as this is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, is often profound. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis needs to identify the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Ellamore area. It should also assess the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources that address the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is vital to ensure patients receive integrated and holistic care.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the broader healthcare ecosystem within the region. This includes assessing the proximity to hospitals and cancer centers, the availability of specialized services such as pulmonology and oncology, and the efficiency of referral pathways. The presence of a well-coordinated network of healthcare providers enhances the continuity of care and improves patient outcomes. The analysis should also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation, which is a crucial preventative measure against lung cancer.

In addition to the above factors, the analysis must consider the specific challenges faced by the Ellamore community. These may include socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of insurance coverage, which can impact access to care. The analysis should identify any community-based initiatives or programs that address these challenges and promote health equity. Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge the potential impact of environmental factors, such as exposure to radon or other pollutants, which can increase the risk of lung cancer.

The analysis should also look at the availability of clinical trials. Access to clinical trials offers patients the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer research. Identifying the presence of clinical trials in the region, and the eligibility criteria for participation, is a valuable component of the assessment.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' for Ellamore, WV, would be a composite of all the factors mentioned above. It is crucial to note that this score is not a definitive judgment of the quality of care, but rather an indicator of the availability and accessibility of resources. The score should be presented in a clear and understandable format, providing a summary of the key findings and highlighting areas of strength and weakness. It is also important to emphasize that this analysis is a snapshot in time and that healthcare resources are constantly evolving.

In conclusion, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Ellamore, WV, concerning lung cancer care. By assessing the availability of primary care, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem, individuals can gain valuable insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of care in their community. For a visual representation of the data and an interactive map of healthcare resources in the area, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps.