26810, Lost City, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.01 percent of the residents in 26810 has some form of health insurance. 36.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.52 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 26810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 97 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia.

The following analysis provides a hypothetical “Lung Cancer Score” for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 26810, a fictional locale, and assesses primary care availability in the equally fictional Lost City. This score is designed to evaluate the preparedness of the local medical landscape for lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support, considering various factors. The analysis will also delve into physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine utilization, and mental health resources.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a real, standardized metric. It is a conceptual framework for this analysis, encompassing factors that contribute to positive patient outcomes. The score will be based on the availability of resources and the presumed quality of care, using publicly available data, and reasonable assumptions.

**ZIP Code 26810: Lung Cancer Score Analysis**

The initial step involves assessing the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 26810. This ratio is critical, as it directly impacts access to care and the ability of primary care physicians to provide comprehensive preventative screenings, including those for lung cancer. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for early detection. Assuming a population of approximately 10,000 residents in 26810 and a hypothetical estimate of 5 primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio would be 1:2000. This ratio is concerning, suggesting potential challenges in accessing timely care.

The analysis then examines the presence and quality of local medical practices. Are there established practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening? Do these practices utilize evidence-based guidelines for screening, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? Are they equipped with the necessary technology, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners, for accurate and early detection? The presence of such technology is crucial for improving survival rates. Further investigation involves assessing the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, within a reasonable distance. Proximity to these specialists is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability of primary care physicians to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and discussions about screening results, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can also bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas. The analysis will consider the availability of telemedicine services within the practices in 26810.

Mental health resources are also essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, and support groups is therefore crucial for providing holistic care. The analysis will evaluate the accessibility of these resources within the community.

**Lost City: Primary Care Availability Analysis**

Lost City, as a fictional location, presents an opportunity to create a hypothetical scenario for primary care availability. The analysis begins by estimating the population size and the number of primary care physicians serving the community. Based on this information, a physician-to-patient ratio is calculated. A low ratio would indicate a shortage of primary care providers, potentially limiting access to care.

The analysis then considers the geographical distribution of primary care practices within Lost City. Are the practices evenly distributed, or are there areas with limited access to care? This assessment involves evaluating the proximity of residents to primary care facilities, considering factors such as transportation options and travel times.

The analysis also examines the availability of extended hours and weekend appointments. These options can be particularly beneficial for working individuals and those with limited access to care during regular business hours.

**Standout Practices and Telemedicine**

In ZIP Code 26810, if we imagine a practice named "Hopewell Medical," it might stand out. Hopewell Medical could be exemplary if it has a dedicated lung cancer screening program, utilizes LDCT scanners, and actively encourages eligible patients to undergo screening. They might also be early adopters of telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

In Lost City, a practice named "CityCare Clinic" could be considered a standout if they offer a comprehensive range of services, including extended hours, weekend appointments, and a strong focus on preventative care. They could also be proactive in reaching out to underserved populations and providing culturally sensitive care.

**Mental Health Integration**

The integration of mental health services into primary care is crucial. In both 26810 and Lost City, the availability of on-site therapists or partnerships with local mental health providers is essential. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, addressing both their physical and emotional needs. The analysis will consider the extent to which primary care practices in both areas have integrated mental health services into their care models.

**Conclusion**

The Lung Cancer Score analysis, while hypothetical, highlights the critical factors influencing the quality of lung cancer care. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of advanced technology, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services all play a vital role in improving patient outcomes. The availability of primary care resources in Lost City is also critical for ensuring access to preventative care and early detection.

For a visual representation of the medical landscape in these areas, including the location of practices, specialists, and resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare infrastructure, helping to identify areas with limited access to care and opportunities for improvement.