26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.88 percent of the residents in 26865 has some form of health insurance. 38.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.41 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 26865 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26865. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18 health care providers accessible to residents in 26865, Yellow Spring, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Yellow Spring, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26865)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services within Yellow Spring, West Virginia (ZIP code 26865), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. A "Lung Cancer Score" is implicitly assessed by examining various metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial for effective cancer care. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of good lung cancer care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Yellow Spring, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While specific, publicly available data on this ratio for ZIP code 26865 is often limited, analyzing data from surrounding counties and the state of West Virginia provides a context. West Virginia, in general, faces challenges with physician shortages, particularly in rural areas. If Yellow Spring mirrors this trend, residents may experience longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative screenings, which are critical for early lung cancer detection.

The quality of primary care practices also significantly influences the Lung Cancer Score. Are the practices in Yellow Spring equipped to provide comprehensive care? This includes offering routine checkups, smoking cessation programs, and access to lung cancer screening (e.g., low-dose CT scans) for high-risk individuals. Standout practices would ideally demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, actively promoting screening guidelines, and providing robust patient education on risk factors. They should also have established referral pathways to specialists, including pulmonologists and oncologists, for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The presence of certified tobacco treatment specialists within a practice would be a significant positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, making healthcare more accessible, especially in rural communities. For lung cancer patients, telehealth can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering services like remote monitoring of symptoms and virtual counseling, would contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. The ability to connect patients with specialists remotely can also expedite diagnosis and treatment, particularly for individuals who might otherwise face significant travel challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis, and the subsequent treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional health. Access to counseling, therapy, and support groups is essential. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals to local mental health providers greatly enhances the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that proactively screen for depression and anxiety and offer integrated mental health support demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources, such as support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families, also contributes to the overall score. These groups provide emotional support, information, and a sense of community, which can be invaluable during a challenging time. The integration of these resources into the primary care system strengthens the support network for patients.

To further assess the Lung Cancer Score, the availability of resources focused on smoking cessation is vital. Primary care practices should have robust smoking cessation programs, including counseling and access to medications like nicotine replacement therapy or prescription drugs. The ability to provide these services within the practice, or to easily refer patients to specialized programs, is crucial. This proactive approach to reducing smoking rates directly impacts lung cancer prevention.

The infrastructure supporting the healthcare system in Yellow Spring also plays a role. The proximity to hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as PET scans and specialized treatment centers, is important. Easy access to these facilities is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The efficiency of the referral process from primary care to specialists is also a key factor.

Evaluating the Lung Cancer Score requires a multifaceted approach, considering all these factors. The ideal scenario would be a community with a high physician-to-patient ratio, practices offering comprehensive preventative care and screening, widespread telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health services, and strong community support. However, due to the rural nature of Yellow Spring and West Virginia's healthcare challenges, the reality may differ.

The analysis would ideally be supported by data from multiple sources, including patient surveys, practice assessments, and public health data. This comprehensive approach provides a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and its impact on lung cancer outcomes. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, ultimately informing strategies to improve access to care and enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by lung cancer in Yellow Spring.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Yellow Spring and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of resources and identify potential gaps in care.