26761, Shanks, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 26761 has some form of health insurance. 56.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.25 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 26761 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26761. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 269 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 375 health care providers accessible to residents in 26761, Shanks, West Virginia.

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within the geographic constraints of ZIP code 26761, focusing on the town of Shanks, West Virginia. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine implementation, and mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Shanks, and by extension, the surrounding ZIP code, is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, longer wait times, and potentially, a delay in the crucial early detection and intervention for lung cancer. This area may face challenges due to its rural setting, which often struggles to attract and retain healthcare professionals. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) should be examined to determine the precise ratio and compare it to state and national averages. The availability of primary care physicians is particularly important, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that could indicate lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians, their commitment to continuing medical education, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offering educational materials and promoting early detection, should be considered favorably. Furthermore, the presence of specialized equipment, such as advanced imaging technologies, is a significant advantage. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Shanks. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of reliable internet connectivity in the area is a key factor influencing the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that offer or provide referrals to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The specific practices and healthcare providers within ZIP code 26761 need to be individually assessed. This involves researching each practice's website, reviewing patient testimonials, and, if possible, conducting interviews with healthcare professionals. Key information to gather includes: the number of primary care physicians and specialists; the availability of lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans; the practice's participation in clinical trials; the availability of telemedicine services; and the presence of mental health support services.

The challenges faced by this rural community are substantial. The limited resources and geographical isolation require innovative solutions to ensure that residents have access to high-quality lung cancer care. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential to address these challenges. Efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and improve access to mental health services are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in Shanks, West Virginia (ZIP code 26761), is influenced by various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play significant roles. A comprehensive assessment of these factors is necessary to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in Shanks and offers a starting point for further investigation.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shanks and the surrounding area, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and demographic information, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling a deeper understanding of healthcare access and identifying potential areas for improvement.