26386, Lumberport, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.25 percent of the residents in 26386 has some form of health insurance. 50.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.12 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 26386 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 714 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26386. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 459 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 291 health care providers accessible to residents in 26386, Lumberport, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Lumberport, WV (ZIP Code 26386)

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care and associated resources within Lumberport, West Virginia (ZIP code 26386), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, early detection, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, with specific attention to physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

Lumberport, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer management. Early detection through screening programs, facilitated by accessible primary care, significantly improves patient outcomes. A low physician-to-patient ratio can hinder this process, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially, poorer prognoses. Conversely, a robust primary care system, coupled with supportive resources, can enhance the overall quality of life for individuals affected by or at risk of lung cancer.

The physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 26386 is a crucial indicator. While precise, publicly available data at the ZIP code level can be difficult to obtain, a broader understanding of Harrison County, where Lumberport is located, provides context. Harrison County, like many rural areas, often faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative screenings, and increased pressure on existing providers. The impact of this ratio on lung cancer care is significant, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the characteristics of local practices are critical. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they participate in insurance plans commonly used by Lumberport residents? These factors directly influence access to care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history), are particularly valuable. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also vital. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing, allowing for better coordination of care between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption presents both challenges and opportunities in Lumberport. The limited broadband infrastructure in some rural areas can hinder the implementation of telemedicine services. However, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care without traveling long distances. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and mental health professionals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the accessibility and convenience of care for Lumberport residents.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Access to mental health support, including counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for patients' well-being. Primary care practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. This integrated approach can improve patients' coping mechanisms, reduce anxiety and depression, and ultimately, improve their quality of life.

Identifying standout practices within the Lumberport area requires a nuanced approach. While specific practice names are withheld for this analysis, the following characteristics are considered indicative of a strong Lung Cancer Score: a high physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings, participation in a wide range of insurance plans, adoption of EHRs, integration of telemedicine services, and established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Practices that actively engage in community outreach and education programs related to lung cancer awareness and prevention also contribute positively to the overall score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Lumberport, WV (ZIP code 26386) is likely moderate. The challenges of rural healthcare, including a potential shortage of primary care physicians and limited access to specialized services, are likely to be present. However, the community's proximity to larger cities like Clarksburg, which offer a wider range of healthcare resources, may mitigate some of these challenges. The success of the Lung Cancer Score depends on the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lumberport and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform to visualize healthcare data, enabling users to identify areas of high need, assess resource distribution, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and planning.