26342, Coxs Mills, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26342, Coxs Mills, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.07 percent of the residents in 26342 has some form of health insurance. 17.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.80 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 26342 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 199 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26342. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 62 health care providers accessible to residents in 26342, Coxs Mills, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Coxs Mills, WV (ZIP Code 26342)

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 26342 (Coxs Mills, WV), focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients. This evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, ultimately providing a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing this significant health concern.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and competent primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at high risk due to factors like smoking history. In Coxs Mills, assessing primary care availability involves understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a snapshot of the potential burden on each physician and how readily individuals can secure timely appointments. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is critical. This includes the PCP's knowledge of lung cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to order necessary diagnostic tests (like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their concerns and treatment options. The presence of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists within a reasonable distance is also a significant factor. Easy access to these specialists ensures seamless referrals and coordinated care, which is essential for complex conditions like lung cancer.

Standout practices within the area are those that prioritize patient-centered care and demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive treatment. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, offer smoking cessation programs, and have established referral pathways to specialists. These practices often have a dedicated team of nurses, medical assistants, and support staff who are trained in lung cancer care and patient education. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key indicator of a modern and efficient practice, enabling better communication and coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Coxs Mills. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services remotely. The availability of telemedicine options can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling or who live in underserved areas. The success of telemedicine depends on factors like internet connectivity, patient and provider comfort with technology, and the availability of appropriate equipment.

The mental and emotional well-being of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of their overall care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the emotional toll of the disease. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and can significantly improve patient outcomes. The presence of social workers who can assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial assistance, and connecting with support groups is also a valuable asset.

In Coxs Mills, the 'Lung Cancer Score' would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with ample access to primary care, specialized expertise, telemedicine options, and mental health support. A lower score would indicate areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing the availability of mental health services.

Specific data points are needed to accurately calculate a score. This would include: the number of PCPs in the area, the patient population, the presence of specialists within a reasonable radius (e.g., within 30 miles), the availability of lung cancer screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine by local practices, and the availability of mental health resources. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and healthcare provider directories can be used to gather some of this information. However, a comprehensive assessment would require more detailed data from local healthcare providers.

The assessment of 'Lung Cancer Score' in Coxs Mills is an ongoing process. It requires regular updates to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as new physician arrivals, the expansion of telemedicine services, and the availability of new treatment options. This dynamic assessment is crucial for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that patients in Coxs Mills have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Coxs Mills and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographic characteristics of the population, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare resources, empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health.