26410, Newburg, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26410, Newburg, West Virginia is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.10 percent of the residents in 26410 has some form of health insurance. 42.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.96 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 26410 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 165 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26410. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 119 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 184 health care providers accessible to residents in 26410, Newburg, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26410 & Primary Care in Newburg

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning lung cancer care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on doctors within ZIP Code 26410 and the availability of primary care in Newburg, aiming to develop a "Lung Cancer Score" reflecting the region's preparedness for diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This score will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive lung cancer care ecosystem.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care system is robust primary care. Newburg's primary care landscape directly impacts the early detection and management of the disease. A high concentration of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area, coupled with a manageable patient-to-physician ratio, suggests greater accessibility for preventative screenings and timely referrals. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs, or an overstretched existing workforce, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced screening rates, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. This initial assessment of primary care availability forms the bedrock of our Lung Cancer Score.

Within ZIP Code 26410, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A favorable ratio, indicating a sufficient number of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, relative to the population, suggests better access to specialized care. This is especially critical for lung cancer, where early and expert intervention significantly improves survival rates. We must consider the proximity of specialists, their board certifications, and their experience treating lung cancer patients. The presence of any dedicated lung cancer specialists, or multidisciplinary teams, would greatly enhance the score.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires examining various factors. This includes analyzing patient reviews, assessing the availability of advanced diagnostic tools like low-dose CT scanners, and evaluating the practice's adherence to established lung cancer screening guidelines. Practices actively involved in clinical trials or research, and those offering comprehensive support services like smoking cessation programs, would receive higher scores. This evaluation goes beyond simple metrics, incorporating qualitative data to paint a more accurate picture of the care provided.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists through telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources, would receive a higher score. This is especially relevant for lung cancer patients who may experience fatigue or other side effects that make in-person visits challenging.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive care model. Practices that offer on-site counseling, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals specializing in oncology, would receive a higher score. Support groups, patient navigators, and access to palliative care services are also important considerations. The integration of mental health support demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care, addressing not just the physical aspects of the disease but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and their families.

To determine the Lung Cancer Score, each factor is weighted based on its relative importance. Physician-to-patient ratios and primary care availability carry significant weight, reflecting their impact on early detection and timely intervention. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are then weighted to reflect their contribution to the overall quality of care. The final score, expressed as a percentage, provides a comparative measure of the region's preparedness to address the challenges of lung cancer.

The analysis process involves gathering data from various sources, including publicly available databases, healthcare provider directories, and patient reviews. This information is then analyzed to identify trends, assess the availability of resources, and evaluate the quality of care. The score is dynamic and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the addition of new specialists, the adoption of new technologies, or the expansion of mental health services.

The limitations of this analysis must also be acknowledged. Data availability and accuracy can vary, and the score is based on the information available at the time of the analysis. The score provides a general overview and does not replace the need for individual consultation with a healthcare professional. Furthermore, patient outcomes are influenced by numerous factors beyond the scope of this analysis, including individual health behaviors, socioeconomic factors, and access to insurance.

This Lung Cancer Score provides a valuable framework for assessing healthcare accessibility and quality in ZIP Code 26410 and Newburg. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, stakeholders can make informed decisions about resource allocation, policy development, and patient care. This information can be used to improve the early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and support of lung cancer patients.

For a more detailed and interactive visualization of this data, including geographical representations of physician locations, primary care availability, and access to resources, we invite you to explore our interactive maps.

**Click here to explore the Lung Cancer Score data on CartoChrome maps and gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.**