26354, Grafton, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26354, Grafton, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.76 percent of the residents in 26354 has some form of health insurance. 48.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.46 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 26354 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,882 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26354. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,033 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,826 health care providers accessible to residents in 26354, Grafton, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score: Grafton, WV (ZIP Code 26354) – A Preliminary Analysis

This analysis provides a preliminary assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Grafton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26354). It focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all factors that contribute to a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” for the region. This score is not a definitive ranking, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on publicly available data and general industry trends.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt access to specialists. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in this process, acting as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs in Grafton is, therefore, a critical element. While precise physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and require real-time data, national averages can provide a benchmark. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to higher patient-to-physician ratios. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Investigating the specific ratio for ZIP Code 26354 is essential to understanding the accessibility of primary care.

Assessing the quality of primary care involves evaluating the presence of preventative services, such as lung cancer screening programs (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals). Practices that actively promote and facilitate these screenings demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Furthermore, the availability of comprehensive care, including management of co-morbidities (other health conditions) that often accompany lung cancer, is a significant factor. This includes the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and diabetes, all of which can impact lung cancer treatment outcomes.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, particularly in rural settings. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Grafton can significantly impact the “Lung Cancer Score.” Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients, and access to educational resources. Practices utilizing telemedicine technologies can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care. The extent of telemedicine adoption, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access (e.g., availability of telehealth platforms, patient training) are critical factors.

The integration of mental health services is a vital component of comprehensive 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 within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide integrated behavioral health services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, which positively impacts the “Lung Cancer Score.” The proximity of mental health professionals and the efficiency of referral pathways are also important considerations.

Identifying “standout practices” requires evaluating several factors. Practices that prioritize preventative care, demonstrate a commitment to early detection through screening programs, and provide comprehensive patient education are likely to perform well. Furthermore, practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated mental health services are likely to be considered leaders in the region. These practices often have better patient outcomes and satisfaction. Identifying these practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other healthcare providers in Grafton.

The “Lung Cancer Score” is also influenced by the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, within a reasonable distance of Grafton. The proximity of specialized care can significantly impact treatment timelines and patient outcomes. The presence of a cancer center or a comprehensive cancer care program in the region is a significant advantage. These centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach to care, integrating medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, and supportive services. The accessibility of these resources, including wait times for appointments and the availability of advanced treatment options, significantly influences the overall score.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and support groups, also contributes to the overall “Lung Cancer Score.” Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and access resources. Financial assistance programs can help patients manage the costs of treatment and medications. Support groups provide a valuable forum for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges, offering emotional support and practical advice. The presence and accessibility of these services demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care.

In conclusion, assessing the “Lung Cancer Score” for Grafton, WV (ZIP Code 26354) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the availability of specialized care and support services. While this analysis provides a preliminary overview, a more in-depth investigation, including gathering specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, and patient outcomes, is necessary to develop a comprehensive and accurate score. This would also include data on hospital quality and patient satisfaction.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Grafton and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and resource distribution, helping you visualize the factors that contribute to the overall “Lung Cancer Score” and potentially identify areas for improvement.