26294, Valley Head, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26294, Valley Head, West Virginia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.63 percent of the residents in 26294 has some form of health insurance. 66.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.27 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 26294 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 76 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26294. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 152 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 48 health care providers accessible to residents in 26294, Valley Head, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Valley Head, WV (ZIP Code 26294)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare, specifically concerning lung cancer care and primary care accessibility, within the Valley Head, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26294) region. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents, considering physician availability, technological integration, and supportive care options. This analysis is not a formal medical recommendation, but rather an informational overview.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, and early detection is crucial for improved outcomes. In Valley Head, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor in the 'Lung Cancer Score.' The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data on this ratio, including the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the estimated population served, is essential. Local healthcare systems, such as Davis Health System, likely play a significant role in providing primary care services to the area. The presence of satellite clinics or outreach programs from larger hospitals can also influence accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the expertise of the physicians, their commitment to preventative care (like lung cancer screenings), and their ability to effectively manage chronic conditions that can impact lung health. Assessing the quality requires looking at factors like board certifications, experience, and patient satisfaction ratings. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and patient review websites can provide insights.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can be significant. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring can streamline the patient journey and reduce the burden of travel. The extent to which PCPs in Valley Head utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually, and the technological infrastructure available to support these services are all important considerations.

Specialized care for lung cancer, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is often concentrated in larger regional medical centers. The proximity of such centers to Valley Head is a factor in the 'Lung Cancer Score.' Travel time and transportation options to these centers are crucial. Does the area have reliable public transportation? Are there patient support services, such as transportation assistance programs offered by local hospitals or cancer support organizations, to help patients navigate the logistical challenges of accessing specialized care?

Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore a key factor. Are there mental health professionals practicing in the area? Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? Are support groups available specifically for cancer patients and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for patients undergoing treatment.

Standout practices within the Valley Head area deserve recognition. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care, embracing technology, and supporting their patients. Identifying these practices requires examining various factors, including patient reviews, physician qualifications, and the range of services offered. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer patient education resources, or prioritize a patient-centered approach should be highlighted.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another element of the 'Lung Cancer Score.' EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of errors. The extent to which PCPs and specialists in the area utilize EHRs, and the interoperability of these systems, are important considerations.

The role of community resources, such as the American Cancer Society or local cancer support organizations, should also be assessed. These organizations often provide valuable services, including patient education, financial assistance, and support groups. Their presence and accessibility within the Valley Head area contribute to the overall 'Lung Cancer Score.'

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another vital factor. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. The presence of such programs within the area, and the degree to which PCPs actively promote and refer patients to these programs, is a crucial consideration.

In summary, the 'Lung Cancer Score' for Valley Head, WV (ZIP Code 26294) is a composite assessment that considers several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the proximity of specialized care, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, the integration of EHRs, community resources, and smoking cessation programs. A comprehensive assessment of these factors will provide a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape and the resources available to residents.

To gain a more visual understanding of healthcare access, physician locations, and the distribution of resources in Valley Head and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. They provide a powerful way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.