26404, Meadowbrook, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26404, Meadowbrook, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.96 percent of the residents in 26404 has some form of health insurance. 39.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 33.91 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 26404 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26404. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 619 health care providers accessible to residents in 26404, Meadowbrook, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in 26404 & Primary Care in Meadowbrook

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and characteristics of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 26404, encompassing Meadowbrook, West Virginia, with a specific lens on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive lung cancer care landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In Meadowbrook (26404), the ratio of PCPs to the general population significantly impacts access to preventative screenings, timely diagnoses, and ongoing care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can create barriers to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, facilitating earlier intervention and more effective management of the disease. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with data from professional medical directories, are essential for calculating an accurate physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of the healthcare resources available to the community.

Identifying standout primary care practices within 26404 is critical. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to preventative medicine, all of which are especially important in the context of lung cancer. Factors that define a standout practice include a demonstrated commitment to early detection, such as actively promoting and facilitating lung cancer screenings for eligible patients. They might utilize advanced diagnostic tools, maintain a strong referral network with pulmonologists and oncologists, and provide patient education materials about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. Furthermore, patient satisfaction surveys and reviews offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided, including the doctor-patient relationship and the overall experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, empathy, and shared decision-making are more likely to foster trust and improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of this assessment. The use of telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas like Meadowbrook. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve convenience, and facilitate more frequent check-ins, which are all vital for patients undergoing lung cancer treatment or follow-up care. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices within 26404 involves examining their technology infrastructure, the types of services offered remotely, and the training provided to both physicians and patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve the quality of care and patient experience.

The availability of mental health resources is an often-overlooked but essential aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is crucial. This analysis will assess the presence of mental health professionals within the community, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, and the availability of resources specifically tailored to cancer patients. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care, which is critical for improving overall quality of life.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care in 26404 will consider all these factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape and to identify areas of strength and weakness. This information can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the resources available and the steps needed to improve lung cancer care in the community.

The analysis will also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective interventions to address health disparities and ensure equitable access to care for all residents of Meadowbrook.

Finally, the analysis will consider the presence of any community-based organizations or support groups that provide assistance to lung cancer patients and their families. These organizations often offer valuable resources, such as financial assistance, patient navigation services, and peer support, which can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes. The analysis will also look at the collaboration between primary care practices and these organizations.

In conclusion, the quality of lung cancer care in 26404, including Meadowbrook, hinges on a complex interplay of factors. From physician availability to the integration of mental health services, each element plays a crucial role in ensuring patients receive timely diagnoses, effective treatment, and comprehensive support. A data-driven analysis, incorporating physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, provides a crucial foundation for understanding and improving lung cancer care within this community.

For a visual representation of these healthcare resources and their distribution within 26404 and surrounding areas, including the identification of healthcare providers and the location of support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and user-friendly interface to visualize healthcare data, identify gaps in care, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.