26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.28 percent of the residents in 26150 has some form of health insurance. 39.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 26150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26150. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 959 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,278 health care providers accessible to residents in 26150, Mineral Wells, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mineral Wells, WV (ZIP Code 26150)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the Mineral Wells, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26150) area. The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) as the initial point of contact, considering their role in early detection and referral, alongside the broader healthcare landscape. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient’s journey through lung cancer.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and proficient primary care. In Mineral Wells, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial starting point. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) offer insights into the overall physician supply. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a given population size, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly concerning in the context of lung cancer, where early detection is paramount. The analysis must consider the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, acknowledging that residents might seek care outside of Mineral Wells itself.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Practices demonstrating a commitment to proactive screening, such as offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, are highly valued. Practices that have implemented robust patient education programs regarding smoking cessation and lung cancer risk factors also contribute significantly. Furthermore, practices with a strong referral network to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists are critical. This network ensures patients receive timely and appropriate care, from initial diagnosis to advanced treatment options. Analyzing patient reviews, practice websites, and professional directories can provide valuable information to assess these practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the healthcare landscape. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide follow-up care, and offer support services, all of which are beneficial for lung cancer patients. The analysis will assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by local PCPs and specialists. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the technology used, and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, will receive a higher score.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, but it is a critical aspect of their overall well-being. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will assess the availability of mental health resources within the Mineral Wells area. This includes evaluating the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., therapists, psychiatrists), support groups, and counseling services. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, will be recognized. The accessibility and affordability of these services are also key considerations.

Primary care availability in Mineral Wells is directly linked to the lung cancer score. A higher concentration of accessible, high-quality PCPs, equipped with the resources and networks to manage lung cancer patients, will increase the overall score. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs, limited access to specialists, and a lack of support services will negatively impact the score. The analysis will consider the proximity of patients to healthcare facilities, transportation options, and any barriers to accessing care.

The analysis will consider the presence of any community outreach programs focused on lung cancer awareness and prevention. These programs can play a vital role in educating the public about risk factors, early detection, and available resources. Practices that actively participate in or support such programs will be recognized for their commitment to community health.

The analysis must also consider the availability of smoking cessation programs. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and helping patients quit smoking is a critical step in preventing the disease and improving outcomes for those diagnosed. The analysis will assess the availability of smoking cessation programs offered by PCPs, hospitals, and other healthcare providers in the area. This includes evaluating the types of programs offered (e.g., individual counseling, group therapy, medication assistance) and their effectiveness.

The availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options is also important. While primary care focuses on early detection and referral, the availability of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., PET scans) and specialized treatments (e.g., radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy) within a reasonable distance is critical for patients. The analysis will consider the proximity of patients to hospitals and cancer centers that offer these services.

The analysis will consider the presence of any patient navigation services. Patient navigators can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and assisting with insurance and financial issues. The availability of these services can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

In conclusion, the “Lung Cancer Score” for Mineral Wells (ZIP Code 26150) is a multifaceted assessment. It reflects the quality and accessibility of healthcare resources, from primary care to specialized treatment and support services. It is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the ever-changing healthcare landscape. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive screening, early detection, and comprehensive care, all crucial for improving the lives of those affected by lung cancer.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Mineral Wells and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, we invite you to explore interactive maps.

**Click here to access the CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.**