26588, Rivesville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26588, Rivesville, West Virginia is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.69 percent of the residents in 26588 has some form of health insurance. 38.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.48 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 26588 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 487 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26588. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 475 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,213 health care providers accessible to residents in 26588, Rivesville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rivesville, WV (ZIP Code 26588)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Rivesville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26588) requires a multifaceted approach, especially when considering a critical illness like lung cancer. This analysis focuses on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors that contribute to a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the community's preparedness to address this disease. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible primary care. Rivesville, as a small community, likely faces challenges in this area. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to early detection, often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs, measured by the physician-to-patient ratio, is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 26588 is essential, examining the number of active PCPs and the population they serve. This data point forms a significant component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care is also critical. Are PCPs concentrated in a single practice, or are they spread throughout the area? This affects access for residents, particularly those with mobility issues or transportation limitations. Furthermore, the types of primary care services offered matter. Do practices offer comprehensive care, including preventative screenings like those for lung cancer? Do they have the resources to manage chronic conditions that can increase lung cancer risk, such as COPD or smoking-related illnesses? The scope of services directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within Rivesville is essential. These practices might excel in patient care, offer advanced diagnostic capabilities, or have a demonstrated commitment to preventative medicine. Researching local practices, including their patient reviews, accreditations, and the services they provide, is paramount. Do they actively promote smoking cessation programs? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists? These factors contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and consultations without the need for extensive travel. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption in Rivesville is crucial. Do local practices offer telehealth appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring technologies for patients with chronic conditions? Are patients able to access specialist consultations via telehealth platforms? A higher level of telemedicine adoption directly improves the Lung Cancer Score, enhancing access to care and potentially facilitating earlier diagnoses.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is critical. Researching the availability of these resources in Rivesville is essential. Are there mental health professionals practicing locally? Are support groups available for cancer patients and their families? Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? The presence of robust mental health support significantly improves the Lung Cancer Score, contributing to a more holistic approach to patient care.

The analysis of the Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of diagnostic tools and treatment options. While Rivesville may not have its own cancer center, the proximity to specialized facilities is important. How far do patients need to travel for advanced imaging, such as CT scans and PET scans? What is the access to radiation therapy and chemotherapy? The ease of access to these services is a significant factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

Furthermore, the community's overall health awareness plays a role. Are there public health initiatives promoting smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness? Are there educational programs targeting high-risk populations? The presence of these programs reflects a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection, ultimately impacting the Lung Cancer Score positively.

The analysis of the Lung Cancer Score is an ongoing process. It requires continuous monitoring of the healthcare landscape, tracking changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. It also involves evaluating the effectiveness of local health initiatives and the impact of these factors on patient outcomes. The score is not a static number but a dynamic representation of the community's preparedness to address lung cancer.

In conclusion, assessing the Lung Cancer Score for Rivesville, WV, requires a detailed investigation of various factors. Primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all play a crucial role. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare environment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to improve patient outcomes.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Rivesville, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a spatial analysis of the healthcare environment, allowing you to visualize access to care and identify potential gaps in services.