26707, Bayard, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26707, Bayard, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.22 percent of the residents in 26707 has some form of health insurance. 51.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.97 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 26707 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26707. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 26707, Bayard, West Virginia.

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 26707, encompassing the town of Bayard, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. The goal is to provide a nuanced "Lung Cancer Score," considering various factors impacting patient outcomes and overall well-being. This score will be an estimation based on publicly available data and reasonable assumptions, as a precise, quantifiable score requires access to proprietary medical records.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Bayard, the primary care landscape is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. We must consider the population of Bayard (estimated at around 500 people) and the surrounding areas within 26707, which may include rural populations with limited access. If the area has only a few PCPs serving a larger geographic area, the ratio could be unfavorable. This situation can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient during consultations, and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Access to timely and accurate diagnoses is paramount in lung cancer care. The ability to quickly see a PCP for initial symptoms, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath, is crucial. Delays can allow the disease to progress, reducing the effectiveness of treatment options. Therefore, the availability of PCPs in Bayard is a fundamental factor in our "Lung Cancer Score."

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the PCP's experience, their commitment to preventative care, and their ability to recognize potential lung cancer symptoms. Does the practice routinely offer screenings for lung cancer, especially for high-risk patients, such as smokers or those with a family history? Are they knowledgeable about the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options? This information is often difficult to obtain directly, but patient reviews, hospital affiliations, and practice websites can provide some clues.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. This might include practices that have a multi-disciplinary approach, involving specialists in pulmonology, oncology, and radiology. These practices often have better coordination of care, leading to improved patient outcomes. Finding a practice in the area that boasts a strong reputation, possibly through affiliations with larger healthcare systems in the region (such as those in Cumberland, Maryland or Morgantown, West Virginia), would be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. The ability to consult with a PCP or specialist remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Bayard. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, saving patients time and money, and making it easier to follow up on treatments and monitor progress. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are also vital. A lung cancer diagnosis can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Patients need access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, to cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the disease. The availability of mental health services in the Bayard area, whether through the primary care practice itself, local hospitals, or community organizations, is an important consideration. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources would be viewed favorably.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in 26707 is therefore a complex assessment. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The specific score is an estimate, based on available data and reasonable assumptions. The more accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered the healthcare system, the higher the score. The lack of readily available data makes it difficult to provide a precise score, but the factors discussed here are essential for evaluating the quality of care in the area.

Considering the rural nature of the area, the score might be impacted by a limited number of specialists. The reliance on larger healthcare systems in neighboring towns and cities would likely be a factor. The availability of transportation to these facilities is also a critical consideration.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in 26707, and the primary care availability in Bayard, is likely to be influenced by the challenges of providing healthcare in a rural environment. While the community may face hurdles, the dedication of local healthcare professionals and the availability of resources can significantly impact the outcomes of lung cancer patients.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 26707, including the locations of practices, hospitals, and other relevant facilities, we encourage you to explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographical representation of the healthcare resources available in the area, helping you to visualize access and identify potential gaps in care.