26405, Moatsville, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.75 percent of the residents in 26405 has some form of health insurance. 68.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 26405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 272 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26405. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 333 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 143 health care providers accessible to residents in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Moatsville, WV (ZIP Code 26405)**

Moatsville, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Taylor County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the potential for lung cancer detection and treatment within the 26405 ZIP code requires a nuanced understanding of the region's demographics, resources, and challenges. This analysis will explore the factors influencing a "Lung Cancer Score" for the area, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for advanced mapping solutions.

The foundation of any effective healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio in Moatsville and the surrounding areas is a critical determinant of the Lung Cancer Score. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative screenings, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for individuals at risk of lung cancer. Data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) would be essential to determine the precise ratio within the 26405 ZIP code and the broader Taylor County. This data will inform the initial component of the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the practices within the area. This involves evaluating factors such as the physicians' experience and specializations, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (e.g., X-ray machines), and the practice's commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs for eligible patients. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation programs and offering educational materials on lung cancer risk factors would also contribute positively to the score. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The practices that prioritize early detection and comprehensive patient care would receive a higher score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Moatsville. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices utilizing telemedicine for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would be considered more accessible and, therefore, contribute positively to the score. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer screening and specialist consultations would be particularly beneficial.

The link between mental health and physical health, including lung cancer, is undeniable. The presence of mental health resources within the community is a vital component of the Lung Cancer Score. Individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for providing support and improving the overall quality of life for patients. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting, or through referrals to nearby specialists, would be a significant advantage. The presence of support groups and educational programs focused on coping with cancer would also enhance the score.

Assessing the Lung Cancer Score requires a comprehensive approach, considering all these factors. The score would be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The score would be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new physicians, the adoption of new technologies, or the expansion of mental health services.

The analysis would also consider the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer in the Moatsville area. This includes smoking rates, exposure to environmental hazards (e.g., radon), and the age distribution of the population. These factors influence the overall risk profile and the need for preventative measures, such as screening programs. The Lung Cancer Score would be adjusted based on the community's specific risk factors.

The challenges in Moatsville are significant. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals, limited access to specialized services, and transportation barriers. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing access to mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for improving the Lung Cancer Score.

Finally, understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and patient needs is crucial. Mapping solutions, such as those offered by CartoChrome, can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome's maps can visualize the location of primary care practices, specialists, mental health providers, and other resources, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access. They can also be used to identify areas with high-risk populations and to target interventions effectively.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Moatsville and to visualize the factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, we encourage you to explore the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare access, identifying gaps in care, and developing strategies to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of lung cancer.