26438, Spelter, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26438, Spelter, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26438 has some form of health insurance. 50.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 26438 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 26438. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 38 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 476 health care providers accessible to residents in 26438, Spelter, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26438 & Spelter Primary Care

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for medical professionals within ZIP Code 26438, focusing on primary care availability in the nearby town of Spelter, West Virginia. The goal is to evaluate the local healthcare landscape's preparedness to address lung cancer, considering factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and patient support. This assessment will move beyond simple metrics, examining physician density, technological integration, and the availability of crucial support services.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care system is a robust primary care network. In Spelter, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Data regarding the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients might face difficulties securing timely appointments for screenings or addressing initial symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved patient outcomes. The specific physician-to-patient ratio in Spelter, and its surrounding areas within the 26438 ZIP code, needs to be compared against national averages to gauge its relative strength or weakness.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have robust systems for patient communication, including appointment reminders and results notifications? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key indicator of a modern, efficient practice. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs, specialists, and hospitals, crucial for coordinated lung cancer care. The adoption rate of EHRs within the 26438 ZIP code area should be investigated.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in the 26438 ZIP code and Spelter is significant. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available locally. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients should be assessed.

The presence of specialized lung cancer screening programs within the 26438 ZIP code area is a vital factor. These programs, often involving low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are critical for early detection in high-risk individuals, such as current and former smokers. The availability of these screening programs, the eligibility criteria, and the follow-up protocols for patients with suspicious findings must be evaluated. The integration of these programs with primary care practices is also crucial, ensuring that patients are appropriately referred and that results are communicated effectively.

Beyond medical treatment, the psychological and emotional well-being of lung cancer patients is paramount. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive care. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of these resources, their accessibility, and their integration with medical care are essential considerations.

The quality of care can be assessed by reviewing patient satisfaction surveys and outcomes data. Hospitals and clinics in the 26438 ZIP code area should be evaluated for their patient satisfaction scores, specifically related to lung cancer care. Outcome data, such as survival rates and complication rates, should also be examined, although it is often difficult to obtain granular data at the ZIP code level.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for highlighting best practices and providing patients with informed choices. Practices that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer care might exhibit several key characteristics: a high physician-to-patient ratio, robust telemedicine capabilities, strong integration with screening programs, and a commitment to patient-centered care. These practices should be recognized and promoted to encourage other providers to adopt similar strategies.

The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated oncology department is a major asset. The hospital's capabilities, including its access to advanced treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, are critical for providing comprehensive care. The hospital's affiliation with larger cancer centers or research institutions is also a positive indicator, as it can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials. The proximity of the hospital to Spelter and the ease of access for patients are also important factors.

The healthcare system in the 26438 ZIP code area and the surrounding region, including Spelter, should also be evaluated for its commitment to patient education. Providing patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services is crucial for empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. Patient education resources, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, should be readily available and easily accessible.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for the 26438 ZIP code and the Spelter area is a composite measure of all these factors. It is a dynamic assessment, and it should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and for identifying areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the availability of resources, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps.