26808, High View, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26808, High View, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.82 percent of the residents in 26808 has some form of health insurance. 34.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.46 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 26808 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26808. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 95 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 50 health care providers accessible to residents in 26808, High View, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26808 & High View Primary Care**

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 26808, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in early detection and treatment. We'll evaluate factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon accessible and competent primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, facilitated by a strong patient-physician relationship, significantly improves survival rates. In High View, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will consider the geographic distribution of practices, appointment wait times, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a critical first step. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians serving a large population, can strain resources and potentially delay appointments. This analysis will examine the ratio within ZIP code 26808, comparing it to regional and national averages. Understanding this ratio provides insight into the potential for overburdened practices and the challenges patients might face in accessing care.

Identifying standout practices within the area is equally important. This involves evaluating factors such as the practice's commitment to preventative care, its use of evidence-based screening guidelines, and its patient satisfaction scores. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and foster a strong patient-physician rapport will be recognized for their positive contributions. This includes looking at the specific screening protocols followed, the use of low-dose CT scans (LDCT), and the practice's overall approach to patient education.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and offer educational resources can significantly improve access to care for patients in High View. This analysis will assess the extent to which practices in ZIP code 26808 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care process.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals, including access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that prioritize mental health integration demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the combined impact of these factors. It will not be a single number but rather a nuanced evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem within ZIP code 26808. The score will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to lung cancer care.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the specific demographics of the population within ZIP code 26808. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and smoking prevalence can influence lung cancer risk and the need for healthcare services. The analysis will incorporate this demographic data to provide a more accurate assessment of the community's needs.

The analysis will also examine the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists, within a reasonable distance of ZIP code 26808. While primary care is the cornerstone of early detection, access to specialized care is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The analysis will consider the proximity of these specialists, their appointment wait times, and their integration with primary care practices.

The presence of patient education programs and support groups will also be assessed. Lung cancer patients and their families benefit greatly from access to information, support, and resources. The analysis will identify practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or referrals to relevant organizations.

The analysis will also consider the cost of healthcare services, including the cost of primary care visits, lung cancer screenings, and treatment. The affordability of care is a critical factor in ensuring that all residents have access to the services they need. The analysis will examine the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26808. It will be updated periodically to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This ongoing assessment will help to identify areas for improvement and to track progress over time.

The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers in High View. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, stakeholders can work together to improve lung cancer care and ultimately save lives. The analysis will provide actionable insights that can be used to inform decision-making and to improve the overall health of the community.

Ultimately, this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 26808. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources, the analysis will offer a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26808, including physician locations, practice types, and access to specialized services, explore CartoChrome maps. Discover the power of data visualization to understand the nuances of lung cancer care in High View.