26325, Auburn, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26325, Auburn, West Virginia is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26325 has some form of health insurance. 80.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.12 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 26325 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26325. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 83 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 health care providers accessible to residents in 26325, Auburn, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26325 & Primary Care in Auburn

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 26325 and the broader context of primary care availability in Auburn necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed around a hypothetical "Lung Cancer Score," considers factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals at risk, focusing on the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of a robust Lung Cancer Score hinges on the availability and quality of primary care. In Auburn, assessing this requires examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative screenings, and a potentially delayed diagnosis. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility and a higher likelihood of early intervention. Information on the specific ratio in Auburn, compared to state and national averages, is critical. This data must be coupled with an assessment of the types of primary care providers available – are there enough family physicians, internists, and nurse practitioners to meet the community's needs?

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for eligible patients. This means examining their adherence to guidelines set by organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for individuals with a significant smoking history. Practices that proactively identify and screen at-risk patients will naturally score higher.

Identifying standout practices within Auburn is crucial. This could involve recognizing those that have implemented streamlined screening protocols, offer patient education programs on lung cancer risks, and have strong referral networks to pulmonologists and oncologists. Furthermore, evaluating patient satisfaction through surveys and online reviews provides valuable insights into the patient experience, which is a key component of any Lung Cancer Score. Are patients consistently treated with respect and provided with clear, understandable information about their health?

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and symptom management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing convenient and timely access to healthcare professionals, should receive higher scores. This also includes the availability of online portals for patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments.

Mental health resources play a significant role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The Lung Cancer Score should incorporate an assessment of the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes the presence of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or mental health. Are these services easily accessible, affordable, and integrated into the overall care plan? Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources should be recognized.

Specifically examining ZIP Code 26325 requires a localized analysis. Are the primary care practices within this ZIP Code adequately equipped to handle the needs of the local population? What is the demographic makeup of the area, and how does that influence the specific needs of the community? Are there any unique challenges or barriers to accessing care within this specific area? This localized assessment should be compared to the broader context of primary care availability in Auburn to identify any disparities or areas for improvement.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is essential for effective lung cancer treatment. The Lung Cancer Score should consider the proximity of these specialists to patients in ZIP Code 26325. Are there specialists within a reasonable driving distance, or do patients have to travel long distances to receive specialized care? The presence of comprehensive cancer centers with multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, would significantly improve the score.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score should consider the availability of support services, such as smoking cessation programs, support groups for patients and their families, and financial assistance programs. These services can play a vital role in helping patients cope with the challenges of lung cancer and improve their quality of life. Practices that actively promote these resources and provide referrals to patients should be highly regarded.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score should be dynamic, reflecting ongoing improvements in healthcare practices and technology. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare in the area. This includes monitoring changes in physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new treatments and therapies.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 26325 and Auburn, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**. Visualize the data, understand the complexities, and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.