26421, Pullman, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26421, Pullman, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26421 has some form of health insurance. 59.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.04 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 26421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 36 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 41 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 74 health care providers accessible to residents in 26421, Pullman, West Virginia.

The analysis below assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 26421, focusing on Pullman, and its surrounding areas. This assessment incorporates factors crucial to patient outcomes, including physician availability, the integration of technology, and the provision of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. In ZIP code 26421, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists is examined. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. The analysis scrutinizes the average wait times for appointments with both PCPs and specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists. Longer wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, which is particularly detrimental in the context of lung cancer.

Pullman's healthcare infrastructure is assessed, considering the presence of hospitals, clinics, and specialized cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners, PET scanners, and bronchoscopy equipment, is evaluated. Access to these technologies is essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists, is also considered. Such teams facilitate a collaborative approach to patient care, which is known to improve outcomes.

Identifying standout practices requires a closer look at specific healthcare providers within the area. Practices are evaluated based on several factors, including the experience and qualifications of their physicians, patient satisfaction scores, and the adoption of evidence-based practices. The analysis seeks to identify practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This includes assessing the use of screening protocols, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, and adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer treatment.

The integration of technology plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery. Telemedicine adoption is a key area of focus. The analysis assesses the extent to which healthcare providers in ZIP code 26421 utilize telemedicine for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals is also considered. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information among healthcare providers, while patient portals empower patients to access their medical records and communicate with their care teams.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, for patients with lung cancer. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is also considered. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals or referrals to external providers.

The assessment also considers the availability of supportive care services, such as palliative care and rehabilitation services. Palliative care focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, while rehabilitation services help patients regain their physical function and quality of life. Access to these services can significantly improve the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. The analysis examines the availability of these services within the local healthcare system and the ease with which patients can access them.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the financial aspects of healthcare. The acceptance of various insurance plans by healthcare providers is evaluated. The availability of financial assistance programs for patients who are unable to afford their care is also considered. This includes information on programs that help patients cover the costs of medications, treatments, and other medical expenses. The goal is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent patients from accessing the care they need.

The analysis also looks at community outreach and education efforts. The presence of lung cancer screening programs and educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about lung cancer risk factors and early detection is assessed. The involvement of healthcare providers in community health events and initiatives is also considered. This includes participation in health fairs, educational seminars, and support groups.

The assessment also examines the availability of clinical trials for lung cancer patients. Clinical trials offer patients access to the latest treatments and therapies. The analysis identifies the presence of clinical trials in the area and the eligibility criteria for participation. This information is crucial for patients who may benefit from these innovative treatment options.

Finally, the analysis considers the overall patient experience. This includes assessing patient satisfaction scores, the ease of navigating the healthcare system, and the responsiveness of healthcare providers to patient needs. The goal is to identify healthcare providers who prioritize patient-centered care and strive to provide a positive experience for their patients.

This comprehensive Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a valuable overview of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26421. Understanding the availability of resources, the adoption of technology, and the provision of supportive care is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26421, including the location of healthcare providers, hospitals, and clinics, and the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer detailed insights into healthcare access and availability, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.