26574, Grant Town, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26574, Grant Town, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.76 percent of the residents in 26574 has some form of health insurance. 48.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.27 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 26574 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26574. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 53 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,379 health care providers accessible to residents in 26574, Grant Town, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26574 and Primary Care Availability in Grant Town**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 26574, encompassing Grant Town, West Virginia, to evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial factor in early lung cancer detection and management. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources.

Grant Town, a small community, presents specific challenges in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to limited access to specialists and specialized equipment. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, making their availability and quality of care paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual patient attention. The precise physician-to-patient ratio in Grant Town is a critical data point. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) would provide valuable insights.

Standout practices within the ZIP code, if any, should be identified. These practices could be recognized for their patient-centered approach, innovative lung cancer screening programs, or exceptional patient outcomes. Identifying these practices would involve reviewing patient reviews, assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (like low-dose CT scans), and evaluating the practice's commitment to continuing medical education in oncology and pulmonology. A practice that actively participates in community outreach programs focused on smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness would also be a strong indicator of excellence.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, connecting patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, pulmonology, and oncology is crucial. Examining the availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care is essential. Practices that embrace telehealth can significantly improve patient access to timely and comprehensive care. The presence of reliable internet connectivity in Grant Town is also a vital consideration for effective telemedicine implementation.

The mental health of patients diagnosed with lung cancer is often overlooked, yet it is a critical component of overall well-being and treatment success. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is crucial. Examining the accessibility of mental health services that specialize in oncology or chronic illness is vital. This includes assessing the availability of individual therapy, support groups, and access to medication management. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices or oncology clinics is a highly desirable feature, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care.

The assessment of primary care availability extends beyond the number of physicians. The types of services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and coordination of care with specialists, are all important. The availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments can also impact patient access. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly between providers are also important.

Specific examples of practices in the area and their offerings are needed to make this analysis more useful. For instance, a practice offering low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening would be considered a standout. Similarly, a practice that has a dedicated oncology nurse navigator to assist patients through the complexities of treatment would be highly valued. The presence of a pulmonologist specializing in lung cancer within a reasonable driving distance is also a significant advantage.

Data on the prevalence of smoking in Grant Town and surrounding areas is crucial. High smoking rates increase the risk of lung cancer, making early detection and intervention even more critical. Public health initiatives focused on smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness play a vital role in mitigating the impact of this disease.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Grant Town would be a composite measure reflecting the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the prevalence of smoking. This score could be represented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to care and better outcomes.

This analysis is based on readily available information and data. A comprehensive analysis would require access to more detailed information, including patient outcomes data, practice-specific information, and insights from healthcare professionals in the area.

For a more detailed and visually engaging understanding of healthcare access and resources in Grant Town and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare providers, resources, and patient demographics, offering a valuable tool for healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers alike.