26337, Cairo, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26337, Cairo, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.72 percent of the residents in 26337 has some form of health insurance. 45.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.65 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 26337 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 244 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26337. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 132 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 26337, Cairo, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Cairo, WV (ZIP Code 26337)

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare services, specifically concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, within Cairo, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26337) presents a complex challenge. This rural community faces unique hurdles, including geographic isolation, limited resources, and an aging population, all of which can impact access to timely and effective lung cancer care. Our analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors like physician availability, access to primary care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This score, while not a definitive ranking, offers a valuable perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Cairo, primary care availability is a significant concern. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely unfavorable, potentially exceeding the national average. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients may face long wait times for appointments or struggle to find a PCP accepting new patients. This directly impacts early detection, a critical factor in lung cancer survival rates. The lack of readily accessible primary care necessitates patients travel further distances, adding to the burden of healthcare access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are local PCPs well-versed in lung cancer screening guidelines, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history)? Do they proactively offer or recommend low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the gold standard for early detection? The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the proactive nature of primary care practices. A practice actively engaging in screening and patient education earns a higher score.

Specialist availability is another critical component. The presence of pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons within a reasonable radius is essential. Cairo, being a small community, likely lacks these specialists directly. This necessitates travel to larger regional medical centers, such as those in Parkersburg or Morgantown. This travel adds to the financial and logistical burdens on patients, potentially delaying consultations and treatments. The "Lung Cancer Score" must factor in the distance to specialists and the ease of transportation options.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographic challenges. The adoption of telemedicine services by local practices can significantly improve access to specialists. Virtual consultations with pulmonologists or oncologists can reduce travel time and costs. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors: the availability of reliable internet access in the area, the willingness of patients to embrace virtual care, and the integration of telemedicine into the existing healthcare workflow. The "Lung Cancer Score" must assess the current telemedicine infrastructure and its utilization within local practices.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is integral to cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the presence of mental health services and their integration into the overall cancer care pathway. Does the local healthcare system provide access to mental health professionals? Are there support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families?

Standout practices within the area, if any, deserve recognition. Are there any primary care practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening, patient education, and referral management? Are there any practices that actively utilize telemedicine to improve patient access? These practices, if identified, would receive a higher score, serving as examples of best practices within the community.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not just about numbers; it's about the overall patient experience. This includes factors like patient satisfaction, communication between healthcare providers, and the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigation helps guide patients through the complex healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance, and other logistical challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" must evaluate the presence and effectiveness of patient navigation services.

In the assessment of the "Lung Cancer Score" for Cairo, WV (ZIP Code 26337), the following considerations are critical: the physician-to-patient ratio, the proactive nature of primary care practices in screening and education, the distance to specialists, the adoption and utilization of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. Due to the rural nature of the area, the score will likely be lower than in more urban settings. The score serves as a starting point for improvement.

The healthcare landscape in Cairo, WV, requires a multifaceted approach to improve lung cancer care. This includes efforts to increase the number of PCPs, promote lung cancer screening, expand telemedicine services, integrate mental health resources, and enhance patient navigation. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a dynamic measure. It can be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments can track progress and identify areas needing further attention. The goal is to improve access to quality lung cancer care for the residents of Cairo, WV.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain deeper insights into the factors influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Cairo, WV, and other areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping platform can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. This visual perspective can enhance understanding and inform strategic decisions.

Visit CartoChrome maps today to explore the healthcare landscape and gain valuable insights.