25976, Meadow Bridge, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 25976, Meadow Bridge, West Virginia is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.27 percent of the residents in 25976 has some form of health insurance. 60.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.45 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 25976 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 329 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25976. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 609 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 250 health care providers accessible to residents in 25976, Meadow Bridge, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Meadow Bridge, WV (ZIP Code 25976)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within Meadow Bridge, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25976), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We'll examine the landscape of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score will reflect the overall preparedness of the community to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. The availability of PCPs in Meadow Bridge, therefore, significantly impacts the likelihood of timely diagnosis and intervention. Unfortunately, rural areas like Meadow Bridge often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, leading to potential shortages. The analysis will consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, along with the patient population, to calculate a physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs per capita, will contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score. Conversely, a low ratio will negatively impact the score, reflecting potential barriers to accessing care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This includes the physicians' experience, their commitment to preventative care (such as smoking cessation counseling and lung cancer screening), and their ability to effectively manage chronic conditions that may increase lung cancer risk. The analysis will consider factors like the presence of board-certified physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (like X-rays), and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and early detection will receive higher marks, boosting the overall score.

The presence of specialized medical practices, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another critical component. While primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to the healthcare system, specialists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of lung cancer. The analysis will assess the proximity of these specialists to Meadow Bridge, considering travel time and accessibility. A higher concentration of specialists within a reasonable distance will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score, indicating greater access to advanced care. Conversely, a reliance on distant specialists could negatively impact the score, potentially delaying treatment and increasing patient burden.

Telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. It offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and connect patients with specialists who may not be locally available. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialist providers in the region will be a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Practices utilizing telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring will receive higher marks, reflecting their commitment to expanding access to care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial for patients navigating this challenging journey. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. The presence of support groups, patient navigators, and other resources designed to address the emotional and social needs of cancer patients will also be considered. A robust network of mental health support will positively influence the Lung Cancer Score, recognizing the importance of holistic care.

Identifying standout practices is essential for providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. The analysis will highlight practices that demonstrate exceptional commitment to lung cancer care. This may include practices with a strong focus on preventative care, those actively participating in clinical trials, or those that have implemented innovative approaches to patient management. These standout practices will serve as benchmarks for quality and innovation, informing the overall assessment.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, weighting each of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources will all contribute to the final score. This score will provide a snapshot of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of lung cancer, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require improvement. The score will be presented on a scale, allowing for a clear and concise evaluation of the healthcare landscape.

The final Lung Cancer Score for Meadow Bridge (ZIP Code 25976) will reflect the overall preparedness of the community to address the challenges of lung cancer. The analysis will provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike, helping to identify areas for improvement and guide efforts to enhance lung cancer care in the region. The score will serve as a starting point for ongoing monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that the community is continually striving to provide the best possible care for those affected by lung cancer.

For a visual representation of these factors and a detailed map of healthcare resources in Meadow Bridge and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify physician locations, specialist availability, and other critical information related to lung cancer care. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community and to make informed decisions about your health.