26716, Eglon, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26716, Eglon, West Virginia is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.50 percent of the residents in 26716 has some form of health insurance. 22.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.51 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 26716 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 144 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26716. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 141 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45 health care providers accessible to residents in 26716, Eglon, West Virginia.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of lung cancer care resources for residents of ZIP code 26716, specifically focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access in the Eglon area. This evaluation considers factors crucial to early detection and effective treatment, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The initial assessment focuses on the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 26716. This metric is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data suggests a challenging situation in many rural areas. Understanding the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing current, verified data from sources such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services or the West Virginia Board of Medicine. This information provides a baseline understanding of the healthcare resources available to residents.

Primary care availability in Eglon, a specific community within the ZIP code, is a critical aspect of this analysis. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer, such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. The proximity of PCPs to residents in Eglon significantly impacts the likelihood of early detection through routine checkups and screenings. The availability of these physicians, including family doctors, internal medicine specialists, and nurse practitioners, directly influences the ability of individuals to receive timely medical attention.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is another key element of the assessment. These practices are often characterized by their commitment to patient care, their utilization of advanced diagnostic tools, and their proactive approach to preventative screenings, including lung cancer screening for eligible individuals. Researching the reputation of local practices through patient reviews, professional referrals, and accreditation status provides valuable insight. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and provide educational resources on lung cancer are especially noteworthy.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly significant role in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to specialists. The availability of telemedicine consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is a crucial factor. This technology enables residents of Eglon to receive expert medical advice and potentially avoid lengthy travel to distant medical centers. The assessment includes evaluating the availability of telemedicine services, the types of specialists available through these platforms, and the ease of use for patients.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and its treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is an essential part of the healthcare ecosystem. This analysis considers the presence of mental health professionals within local practices, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the accessibility of support groups for cancer patients and their families.

A comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26716 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the availability of primary care in Eglon, identifying standout medical practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources. This information, when compiled and analyzed, provides a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and its capacity to address the needs of individuals at risk for or affected by lung cancer.

The quality of care provided by local healthcare providers is a crucial factor in the early detection and treatment of lung cancer. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. The availability of screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is a key factor. The assessment considers whether local practices offer these screenings, the eligibility criteria they follow, and the frequency with which they are performed.

The level of patient education is also essential. Patients need to be informed about the risk factors for lung cancer, the importance of early detection, and the available treatment options. Practices that provide educational materials, conduct community outreach programs, and offer support groups play a crucial role in empowering patients to take an active role in their healthcare. The assessment will consider the availability of these resources and the extent to which they are utilized.

The effectiveness of communication and coordination among healthcare providers is also important. Lung cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The ability of these specialists to communicate effectively, share patient information, and coordinate treatment plans is essential for providing high-quality care. The assessment will consider the use of electronic health records, the frequency of multidisciplinary team meetings, and the level of collaboration among providers.

The assessment should also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the waiting times, the courtesy and responsiveness of staff, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient feedback, obtained through surveys, reviews, and other sources, provides valuable insights into the quality of care provided by local healthcare providers.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26716 presents a complex picture. While challenges may exist in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care, particularly in rural areas like Eglon, the presence of dedicated medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources offer hope. The commitment to early detection, preventative screenings, and patient education is crucial. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in this area, explore detailed, interactive maps that allow you to visualize the data and identify healthcare providers.