26448, Wallace, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26448, Wallace, West Virginia is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.85 percent of the residents in 26448 has some form of health insurance. 59.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.99 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 26448 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26448. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 295 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 461 health care providers accessible to residents in 26448, Wallace, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wallace, WV (ZIP Code 26448)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the potential quality of care related to lung cancer within the Wallace, WV (ZIP Code 26448) area. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about lung cancer, focusing on primary care access and the overall support system available. This analysis considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care often begins with accessible and competent primary care physicians (PCPs). In Wallace, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. This ratio reflects the number of residents for every PCP, providing a general indication of access to care. A low ratio suggests better access, while a high ratio may indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent follow-up care. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) will be consulted to establish the current ratio for the 26448 ZIP code. This data will be compared to state and national averages to assess the relative availability of primary care in the region.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. This analysis will explore the reputation and performance of medical practices within and near Wallace. This will involve examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data on quality metrics, such as those provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Key factors considered include the practice's commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening recommendations, and its ability to coordinate care with specialists. Identifying standout practices will highlight those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive management of potential health risks.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Wallace. Its ability to connect patients with specialists, provide follow-up consultations, and offer mental health support can significantly improve access to care. This analysis will investigate the telemedicine capabilities of local practices. This includes assessing whether physicians offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and access to online patient portals. The availability of telemedicine can be a game-changer, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis cannot be overstated. Mental health resources are essential for patients navigating this challenging journey. This analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the 26448 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This includes identifying therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in oncology or chronic illness. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility, is a vital component of holistic patient care. The analysis will also examine the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, as this can streamline access to support.

The overall accessibility of lung cancer screening programs will also be considered. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes. This analysis will identify facilities offering lung cancer screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, within a reasonable distance of Wallace. It will also assess the screening eligibility criteria and the ease with which patients can access these services. The availability of screening programs, coupled with the proactive recommendations of primary care physicians, is a key factor in early detection and treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis will examine the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable radius of Wallace. The proximity of these specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of lung cancer. The analysis will assess the number of specialists available, their areas of expertise, and their affiliations with local hospitals or cancer centers. This information will provide a comprehensive view of the specialized care options available to patients in the area.

The integration of technology in healthcare is continuously evolving. This analysis will explore the use of electronic health records (EHRs) by local practices. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate information sharing between providers, and enhance patient engagement. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices utilize EHRs and the benefits they provide to patients.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education resources. Access to reliable information about lung cancer, treatment options, and support services is essential for empowering patients to make informed decisions. This includes identifying local organizations and online resources that provide educational materials, support groups, and advocacy services.

Finally, the analysis will consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region. This includes assessing the quality of local hospitals, the availability of emergency services, and the level of coordination between different healthcare providers. A strong healthcare infrastructure is essential for providing comprehensive and coordinated care to patients with lung cancer.

By considering all these factors, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for the Wallace, WV (ZIP Code 26448) area. This score will reflect the overall availability and quality of resources and care related to lung cancer, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the healthcare landscape in Wallace and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.