26276, Kerens, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26276, Kerens, West Virginia is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.43 percent of the residents in 26276 has some form of health insurance. 33.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.14 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 26276 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26276. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 472 health care providers accessible to residents in 26276, Kerens, West Virginia.

This analysis focuses on evaluating the healthcare landscape in Kerens, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26276), specifically concerning lung cancer care and primary care accessibility. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, consider factors impacting lung cancer care, and analyze the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the quality and accessibility of healthcare services within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the strength of the primary care network. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians are often the first point of contact. In Kerens, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. The availability of primary care providers directly influences the ability to screen for lung cancer, manage symptoms, and coordinate referrals to specialists. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a relative scarcity of providers, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care.

Standout practices within the Kerens area, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to proactive patient care. This includes practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Furthermore, practices that emphasize patient education about risk factors (smoking, radon exposure, etc.) and promote healthy lifestyle choices contribute significantly to preventative care. The presence of certified lung cancer specialists, even if located outside of Kerens, but readily accessible for referrals, is also a significant positive factor.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Kerens. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices and specialists is a critical indicator. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and access to specialists who may not be physically present in the area. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care. The ease of access to these services is a key metric in the overall healthcare score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is vital. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the ease of referral to external mental health providers, is a significant advantage. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, further enhances the support system for patients and their families.

Specific data regarding physician-to-patient ratios in Kerens is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) can provide valuable insights. Analyzing this data, comparing it to state and national averages, will help determine the adequacy of primary care access. The number of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable radius of Kerens is also a critical factor.

The presence of hospitals or cancer centers within a commutable distance significantly impacts the quality of lung cancer care. These facilities provide access to advanced diagnostic tools, treatment options (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), and specialized medical teams. The proximity of these facilities, along with the quality of care they provide, is a crucial element in the overall assessment. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers, within these facilities further enhances the patient experience.

Evaluating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) by primary care practices is also important. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. The ability of practices to share patient data with specialists and hospitals is a key indicator of a well-integrated healthcare system. The interoperability of these systems is especially important when a patient needs to be referred to a specialist.

The availability of resources for smoking cessation is another critical factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and providing support for quitting is essential for prevention and early intervention. The presence of smoking cessation programs, counseling services, and medication options within the Kerens area is a positive indicator. The integration of these resources into primary care practices is particularly beneficial.

The overall score for lung cancer care in Kerens will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care network, readily accessible specialists, robust telemedicine adoption, comprehensive mental health resources, and a commitment to preventative care. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as limited access to specialists, a lack of telemedicine options, or insufficient mental health support.

To summarize, the healthcare landscape in Kerens presents a complex picture. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors, a thorough assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized care facilities all play crucial roles in the quality of lung cancer care.

For a comprehensive visualization of healthcare resources in Kerens and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and access to specialized services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for analyzing geographical data and gaining a deeper understanding of healthcare access.