26292, Thomas, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26292, Thomas, West Virginia is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.89 percent of the residents in 26292 has some form of health insurance. 54.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.61 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 26292 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26292. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 87 health care providers accessible to residents in 26292, Thomas, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Thomas, WV (ZIP Code 26292)

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thomas, West Virginia (ZIP code 26292), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. It considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals potentially facing a lung cancer diagnosis or requiring ongoing management.

Thomas, WV, a small community nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to limited resources and geographical barriers to accessing specialized medical services. Therefore, understanding the specifics of primary care availability is paramount. This analysis assesses the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering the population size and the resulting physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

The availability of primary care is directly linked to early detection and treatment of lung cancer. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Their ability to recognize these symptoms, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists is crucial. The analysis examines the presence of any "standout practices" in the area. These practices might be identified by their commitment to preventative care, their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, or their demonstrated success in patient outcomes. Factors such as the availability of on-site imaging services (e.g., X-rays, CT scans) and access to smoking cessation programs are considered.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. In a rural area like Thomas, telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals needing follow-up appointments, medication management, or access to specialists not readily available in the immediate vicinity. The analysis investigates the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists utilize telemedicine platforms for patient consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. This includes evaluating the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The mental health component is an often-overlooked but essential aspect of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health resources in Thomas and the surrounding areas. This includes the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, as well as the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers is also considered.

The success of lung cancer treatment often hinges on a multidisciplinary approach. This involves collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. The analysis examines the referral patterns of local PCPs, the availability of specialists within a reasonable distance, and the extent to which these specialists work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. The presence of a multidisciplinary tumor board, where healthcare professionals meet to discuss and coordinate treatment plans for individual patients, is a significant indicator of quality care.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of patient education and support resources. This includes access to information about lung cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, and survivorship. The presence of patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, is also assessed. These navigators can help patients schedule appointments, understand their treatment plans, and access financial assistance programs. The availability of support groups and educational materials in local libraries and community centers is also considered.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on lung cancer outcomes. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can all contribute to disparities in care. The analysis will examine the prevalence of these factors in Thomas and the surrounding areas and assess the extent to which healthcare providers are addressing these challenges. This includes evaluating the availability of financial assistance programs, transportation services, and culturally sensitive healthcare providers.

In assessing the quality of lung cancer care in Thomas, the analysis will also consider the utilization of evidence-based guidelines and best practices. This includes evaluating the extent to which healthcare providers are adhering to national guidelines for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis will also assess the availability of clinical trials and research opportunities, which can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments. The presence of a strong research infrastructure can also contribute to improvements in the overall quality of care.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall patient experience. This includes assessing patient satisfaction with the care they receive, the communication skills of their healthcare providers, and the accessibility of healthcare services. The analysis will consider patient feedback through surveys, reviews, and other sources. The goal is to understand the patient's perspective and identify areas where improvements can be made.

By considering all of these factors, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the lung cancer care landscape in Thomas, West Virginia. It will highlight strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and offer recommendations for enhancing the quality of care for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis. This detailed evaluation provides a critical lens through which to understand the challenges and opportunities in delivering effective and compassionate healthcare within this unique community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Thomas, WV, including the locations of healthcare providers, access to services, and population demographics, explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps offers advanced mapping capabilities, allowing you to visualize and analyze the data discussed in this report, providing a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to unlock the power of location intelligence and gain a comprehensive view of healthcare resources in your community.**