26691, Tioga, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26691, Tioga, West Virginia is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26691 has some form of health insurance. 52.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.58 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 26691 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 93 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26691. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 35 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 332 health care providers accessible to residents in 26691, Tioga, West Virginia.

The analysis that follows provides an assessment of factors relevant to lung cancer care within and around ZIP Code 26691 and the primary care landscape in Tioga, focusing on elements that could influence patient outcomes. This analysis isn't a definitive ranking but a contextual overview, aiming to highlight areas of strength and potential areas for improvement in the context of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The core of effective lung cancer care hinges on early detection and timely intervention. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact, making their availability and quality critical. In Tioga, assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of practicing PCPs relative to the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. This ratio, coupled with the geographic distribution of PCPs within Tioga, provides a baseline understanding of access to care. Are the PCPs clustered in one area, or are they distributed across the region, making them more accessible to a wider patient population?

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care plays a significant role. Does the primary care infrastructure in Tioga actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (e.g., smokers, those with a family history)? Are PCPs well-versed in the latest screening guidelines and diagnostic tools? The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing between PCPs and specialists is another key factor. Seamless communication streamlines the referral process and ensures that patients receive coordinated care. A robust EHR system can also improve the accuracy and completeness of patient records, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Telemedicine adoption is a modern element of healthcare that can significantly impact patient access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expediting the diagnostic process. The availability of telemedicine services for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care in Tioga and the surrounding areas is a critical consideration. Does the local healthcare infrastructure support telemedicine consultations, and are patients comfortable using these technologies?

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, in Tioga and the surrounding areas is a crucial factor. Do these professionals specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients? Are support groups or other resources available to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment?

Within ZIP Code 26691, the analysis should consider the specific practices and their individual strengths. Some practices may have a strong focus on preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening. Others may have established relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists, streamlining the referral process. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating their infrastructure, including their use of technology, their patient satisfaction scores, and their commitment to providing comprehensive care.

The presence of specialized lung cancer treatment centers within a reasonable distance of ZIP Code 26691 is another important factor. These centers typically have access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as PET scans and advanced imaging techniques, as well as a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists. Proximity to these centers can significantly impact patient outcomes by providing access to the most advanced treatments and expertise.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, can also improve the patient experience. Patient navigators help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing information, and offering emotional support. These services can be particularly helpful for patients with lung cancer, who often face numerous challenges.

The data should also examine the availability of clinical trials. Participation in clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in lung cancer research. The presence of clinical trials in the area suggests a commitment to innovation and improved patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that may influence access to care. Factors such as income, insurance coverage, and transportation options can all affect a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The analysis should consider the demographics of the population served by the PCPs and specialists in the area and identify any disparities in access to care.

In summary, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in and around ZIP Code 26691 and the primary care availability in Tioga involves a multi-faceted approach. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized treatment centers and support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the factors that influence patient outcomes and identify areas of strength and potential areas for improvement. The specifics of each of these factors will determine the overall quality of care available.

To visualize these complex data points and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps allow you to visualize geographic data, identify trends, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.