26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.83 percent of the residents in 26425 has some form of health insurance. 56.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.94 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 26425 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 185 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26425. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 health care providers accessible to residents in 26425, Rowlesburg, West Virginia.

The analysis will be performed using publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26425 & Primary Care Availability in Rowlesburg**

Rowlesburg, West Virginia, nestled within ZIP code 26425, presents a unique challenge when assessing healthcare access, particularly concerning lung cancer care. This analysis explores the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources, offering a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective. The score, though not a formal metric, considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of lung cancer within the community. It examines physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all of which impact the overall healthcare landscape for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through screening programs and timely referrals to specialists are paramount. In Rowlesburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed access to care, potentially impacting lung cancer outcomes. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the U.S. Census Bureau will be used to estimate this ratio. The analysis will also consider the age distribution of the population in 26425, as older individuals are at higher risk for lung cancer, further emphasizing the importance of accessible primary care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive health management. This includes practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). These programs often involve low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for individuals meeting specific risk criteria, such as age and smoking history. Identifying practices that offer these services, or readily refer patients to them, is a key component of the "Lung Cancer Score." Furthermore, practices with electronic health record (EHR) systems that facilitate data sharing and care coordination are viewed favorably.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas like Rowlesburg. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, can reduce travel burdens and expedite the diagnostic and treatment process. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes examining whether they offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and secure communication channels for patients. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to expanding access to care.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an integral part of comprehensive care. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within Rowlesburg and the surrounding areas. This includes identifying mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), who specialize in oncology or are experienced in supporting individuals with chronic illnesses. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, will also be considered. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either directly or through referrals, will be recognized for their holistic approach.

A key aspect of the "Lung Cancer Score" is the accessibility of specialists. While Rowlesburg may not have its own pulmonologists or oncologists, the proximity and ease of access to these specialists in nearby cities or towns are crucial. The analysis will evaluate the referral patterns of local PCPs, identifying the specialists they commonly work with and the average wait times for appointments. Furthermore, the availability of specialized cancer centers or hospitals within a reasonable distance will be considered. The ability to quickly access specialized care is a critical factor in improving lung cancer outcomes.

Another factor in the "Lung Cancer Score" is the availability of patient education resources. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options are viewed positively. This includes offering educational materials, hosting informational sessions, or providing links to reputable online resources. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, empowering them with knowledge and support, will receive a higher score.

The availability of support services beyond medical care is also relevant. This includes access to financial assistance programs, transportation services, and patient advocacy groups. Lung cancer patients often face significant financial burdens, and access to these resources can alleviate stress and improve their quality of life. The analysis will identify the availability of these services in the Rowlesburg area and assess how well local practices connect patients with them.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. The analysis will consider the impact of recent policy changes, such as those related to insurance coverage and access to medications. The analysis will also consider the ongoing efforts of local healthcare providers and community organizations to improve lung cancer care.

The final "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP code 26425 and primary care availability in Rowlesburg is a composite assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and access to specialists and support services. It is important to reiterate that this analysis is based on publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice. The purpose is to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements could be made to enhance lung cancer care.

**Call to Action:**

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Rowlesburg and surrounding areas, and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, providing a more in-depth understanding of healthcare access in your community.