26366, Haywood, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26366, Haywood, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 55.17 percent of the residents in 26366 has some form of health insurance. 46.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 8.62 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 26366 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26366. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,884 health care providers accessible to residents in 26366, Haywood, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26366 & Haywood Primary Care

This analysis evaluates the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 26366 and the broader context of primary care availability in Haywood, focusing on factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score." This score, though not a formal metric, reflects the accessibility, quality, and breadth of resources available to patients facing this challenging disease. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective lung cancer management.

ZIP Code 26366, representing a specific geographical area, requires a localized assessment. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio in these specialties could significantly hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating a greater concentration of specialists, generally translates to improved access and potentially better outcomes. Investigating the specific number of these specialists practicing within the ZIP code, coupled with the estimated population, provides the foundation for this crucial ratio analysis. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards can be leveraged for this purpose.

Beyond specialist availability, the presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) is vital. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, often responsible for early detection through screenings and referrals. The density of PCPs within 26366, and their ability to provide prompt and appropriate referrals, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. A shortage of PCPs, or a lack of coordination between PCPs and specialists, can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, ultimately affecting patient outcomes. The analysis must consider the ratio of PCPs to the general population within the ZIP code.

In Haywood, the focus shifts to the broader availability of primary care. This encompasses not just the number of PCPs but also their distribution across the county, the accessibility of their offices (considering factors like transportation and insurance acceptance), and the overall capacity of the primary care system to handle the healthcare needs of the population. Haywood’s primary care infrastructure serves as the gateway to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and referral, making its strength or weakness a significant factor in the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within both the ZIP code and Haywood is essential. These practices often demonstrate excellence in various areas, such as early detection, patient education, and adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines. Examining patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the Commission on Cancer), and participation in clinical trials can help identify these high-performing practices. The analysis should highlight practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to improving lung cancer outcomes. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers in the region.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor influencing the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, including increased access to specialists, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Virtual consultations can facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up care. The analysis should investigate the extent to which practices in 26366 and Haywood utilize telemedicine for lung cancer-related services, including remote monitoring, virtual support groups, and consultations with specialists. The availability of reliable internet access and the digital literacy of the patient population are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are crucial for patient well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Lung Cancer Score must consider the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, for patients in 26366 and Haywood. The analysis should assess whether these resources are readily accessible, integrated into the cancer care pathway, and culturally sensitive to the needs of the patient population. The presence of social workers and patient navigators who can connect patients with these resources is also a positive indicator.

The analysis should consider the availability of support services such as smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a crucial part of prevention and treatment. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the presence of readily available smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups. The effectiveness of these programs in helping patients quit smoking is also an important factor.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. The presence of facilities offering advanced imaging techniques, such as PET scans and advanced bronchoscopy, can facilitate early and accurate diagnosis. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy, can improve patient outcomes. The analysis should assess the availability of these resources within 26366 and the broader Haywood area.

Finally, the analysis must consider the coordination of care. Effective lung cancer management requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. The analysis should assess the extent to which these professionals collaborate to provide coordinated and comprehensive care. The use of electronic health records and other technologies to facilitate communication and information sharing can improve care coordination.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for ZIP Code 26366 and Haywood is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of support services and advanced treatment modalities. This comprehensive analysis, while not a single numerical score, provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing lung cancer. It highlights areas where improvements are needed to enhance patient outcomes and improve the overall quality of care.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in 26366 and Haywood? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data with CartoChrome maps. See how these factors influence the Lung Cancer Score.