26426, Salem, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26426, Salem, West Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.60 percent of the residents in 26426 has some form of health insurance. 45.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.82 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 26426 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26426. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,517 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 896 health care providers accessible to residents in 26426, Salem, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Salem, WV (ZIP Code 26426)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within the Salem, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26426) area, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician access, practice characteristics, and the integration of supportive services. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a qualitative evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Salem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on early detection. This, in turn, is heavily influenced by the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Salem, the assessment begins with an examination of the physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources will be crucial in determining the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 26426 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater access to primary care, a vital first step in addressing lung cancer risks.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Do they offer comprehensive services, including smoking cessation programs, which are critical in preventing lung cancer? Are they equipped with the necessary technology for early detection, such as access to low-dose CT scans? The analysis will investigate the practices' adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk due to smoking history or other factors. This includes assessing the availability of referrals to pulmonologists and oncologists, specialists essential for diagnosis and treatment.

Standout practices will be identified based on their demonstrated commitment to patient care. This involves looking for practices that actively engage in community outreach, providing educational materials and promoting preventative measures. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care will be viewed favorably. The analysis will examine patient reviews and testimonials, providing insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care received.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to consult with physicians remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Salem. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This is particularly relevant for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care, reducing the need for frequent travel and improving convenience.

The psychological and emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is immense. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, within the Salem area. It will assess the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage, wait times, and the availability of support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator, as it can facilitate seamless referrals and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of palliative care services, which focus on managing pain and other symptoms, improving the quality of life for patients with advanced lung cancer. This includes assessing the availability of hospice care and other supportive services that can provide comfort and support to patients and their families.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance of Salem. This includes assessing the presence of oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists who are experienced in treating lung cancer. The availability of clinical trials and other advanced treatment options will also be considered.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Salem, WV, will be a nuanced evaluation, considering all these factors. It will highlight strengths, such as practices with robust preventative programs or those embracing telemedicine. It will also identify areas for improvement, such as potential shortages in physician availability or a lack of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Salem, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

This analysis, however, is limited by the availability of public data. A complete picture requires access to more granular information, including detailed practice-level data, patient outcomes, and real-time resource availability. While this assessment provides a valuable starting point, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals and conduct further research to make informed healthcare decisions.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Salem, WV, and to explore the geographic distribution of resources and potential disparities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed visualization of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to supportive services.

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