26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 45.71 percent of the residents in 26273 has some form of health insurance. 20.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.00 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 26273 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 304 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26273. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 351 health care providers accessible to residents in 26273, Huttonsville, West Virginia.

The following analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP Code 26273, specifically focusing on Huttonsville, West Virginia. This score considers factors crucial to early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being in the context of lung cancer care. The methodology emphasizes the availability of resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This is not an exhaustive medical evaluation, but rather an overview of accessible healthcare elements.

The foundation of a good Lung Cancer Score rests on access to primary care. Huttonsville, as a rural community, faces inherent challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. We need to examine the physician-to-patient ratio within the 26273 ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and difficulty in establishing consistent patient-physician relationships. This is a key metric.

Standout practices within the area are those that actively promote preventative care, including lung cancer screening. This involves implementing robust screening protocols for high-risk individuals, such as current and former smokers. Practices that utilize the latest guidelines from organizations like the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for lung cancer screening are highly valued. These protocols include the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital aspect of a strong Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in remote areas to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for post-diagnosis care and symptom management, are considered to be demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can also facilitate timely referrals for further diagnostic tests or treatment.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but are critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through referral networks, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer access to counselors, therapists, and support groups demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This is a crucial element.

The infrastructure supporting lung cancer care is also important. This includes the availability of diagnostic imaging facilities, such as CT scanners, within a reasonable distance. The proximity of cancer treatment centers, including oncologists, radiation therapists, and surgical specialists, is also a key consideration. Patients need access to comprehensive cancer care close to their homes.

In evaluating the Lung Cancer Score, the presence of patient education programs is also a factor. These programs can empower patients to understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and the importance of adherence to their care plan. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, and access to reliable online resources are considered to be performing well in this area. Education is power.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is a critical factor. EHRs allow for seamless communication between healthcare providers, facilitate the sharing of patient information, and improve the coordination of care. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better equipped to manage patient data, track screening results, and ensure timely follow-up appointments. This is a modern necessity.

The financial aspects of care are also important. The Lung Cancer Score considers the availability of financial assistance programs, insurance coverage options, and the practice's willingness to work with patients to address their financial concerns. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

The quality of communication between physicians and patients is a fundamental aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that prioritize clear, concise, and empathetic communication are highly valued. This includes providing patients with adequate time to ask questions, explaining complex medical information in an understandable manner, and actively involving patients in their treatment decisions.

The Lung Cancer Score analysis would also consider the practice's commitment to continuous quality improvement. This includes regularly reviewing patient outcomes, analyzing data to identify areas for improvement, and implementing changes to enhance the quality of care. Practices that actively seek to improve their performance are considered to be demonstrating a commitment to excellence.

The availability of palliative care services is another key factor. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and support to patients and their families throughout the course of their illness. Practices that offer access to palliative care services, either directly or through referral, are considered to be providing comprehensive care.

The Lung Cancer Score also takes into account the practice's commitment to research and innovation. This includes participation in clinical trials, the use of evidence-based practices, and a willingness to embrace new technologies and treatment approaches. Practices that are at the forefront of cancer care are considered to be demonstrating a commitment to excellence.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care in Huttonsville (ZIP Code 26273) depends on a complex interplay of factors. These include physician availability, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall commitment to patient-centered care. The ability to access timely screening, diagnosis, and treatment, coupled with comprehensive support services, is critical for improving patient outcomes.

To visualize the distribution of these healthcare resources and understand the geographical context of lung cancer care in Huttonsville and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.