26627, Heaters, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26627, Heaters, West Virginia is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 62.50 percent of the residents in 26627 has some form of health insurance. 32.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.83 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 26627 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26627. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 226 health care providers accessible to residents in 26627, Heaters, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26627 & Heaters, WV

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of lung cancer care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 26627, encompassing the town of Heaters, West Virginia. The evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and patient support, aiming to paint a clear picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement. The core focus is on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in the fight against lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. In Heaters, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of patient outcomes. The analysis considers the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 26627 ZIP code, factoring in their specialties, board certifications, and years of experience. A higher density of qualified PCPs translates to improved access for screenings, early diagnosis, and timely referrals to specialists. This initial assessment will reveal potential gaps in care, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or transportation challenges, which are common in rural areas.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with patients, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis will compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 26627 to state and national averages, highlighting any disparities. This comparison will illuminate the potential burden on existing healthcare providers and identify the need for recruitment or resource allocation to ensure equitable access to care.

Standout practices within the area warrant specific attention. The analysis will identify practices demonstrating exemplary patient care, particularly those with a focus on lung cancer screening and management. This includes evaluating their adherence to national guidelines for screening, the utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer patient education, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement will be recognized.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The analysis will assess the extent to which healthcare providers in 26627 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The evaluation will consider the availability of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered, and the patient experience with these technologies.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet crucial, component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient’s emotional and psychological well-being. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within the 26627 ZIP code, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. It will assess the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need to cope with the emotional challenges of their illness.

The geographic isolation of Heaters presents unique challenges. The analysis considers the distance patients must travel to access specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists. This evaluation will factor in the availability of transportation services, the accessibility of public transportation, and the potential impact of travel time on patient outcomes. The presence of mobile screening units or outreach programs will also be considered.

The evaluation of lung cancer care in 26627 also considers the socioeconomic factors that can influence patient outcomes. This includes assessing the prevalence of smoking, the rates of poverty, and the educational attainment levels within the community. These factors can impact access to care, adherence to treatment, and overall health outcomes. The analysis will identify any disparities and highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges.

The analysis will also evaluate the availability of patient education materials and resources. This includes assessing the availability of information about lung cancer screening, treatment options, and support services. The evaluation will consider the language accessibility of these materials and the availability of culturally sensitive resources. Patient empowerment through education is a key factor in improving outcomes.

The analysis will also consider the role of local hospitals and healthcare systems. The evaluation will assess the quality of care provided by these institutions, including their accreditation status, their commitment to patient safety, and their participation in clinical trials. The analysis will also consider the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

The availability of palliative care services is another important factor. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses. The analysis will assess the availability of palliative care services in 26627, including access to pain management specialists, social workers, and chaplains. The integration of palliative care into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient comfort and well-being.

Finally, the analysis will consider the involvement of community organizations and advocacy groups. The evaluation will assess the role of these organizations in providing support to patients, raising awareness about lung cancer, and advocating for improved healthcare access. The presence of a strong community network can significantly improve patient outcomes.

This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clear and actionable assessment of lung cancer care in ZIP Code 26627 and Heaters, West Virginia. It will identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and a healthier community.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26627, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the community.