26451, West Milford, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26451, West Milford, West Virginia is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.23 percent of the residents in 26451 has some form of health insurance. 20.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.44 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 26451 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 94 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26451. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,039 health care providers accessible to residents in 26451, West Milford, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: West Milford, WV (ZIP Code 26451)**

West Milford, West Virginia, a community nestled in the Appalachian foothills, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing lung cancer care availability and quality. This analysis focuses on the factors influencing a “Lung Cancer Score” for the area, examining physician access, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all within the context of ZIP code 26451. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals facing or at risk of lung cancer.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is access to skilled medical professionals. A crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, and oncologists. In West Milford, the physician-to-patient ratio for all specialties is likely lower than the national average, particularly for specialists. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially compromised treatment outcomes. The limited number of specialists necessitates travel to larger cities like Clarksburg or Morgantown for advanced diagnostic procedures, specialized treatments, and consultations, adding a significant burden on patients.

Primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection and ongoing management of lung cancer. Their ability to screen for risk factors, order diagnostic tests, and provide coordinated care is essential. The availability of primary care in West Milford is a critical factor. The presence of established primary care practices with a sufficient number of PCPs, coupled with the ability to accept new patients, is essential. The quality of these practices, including their commitment to preventive care, patient education, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that prioritize proactive screening, such as recommending low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, demonstrate a commitment to early detection. Equally important is the ability to provide comprehensive patient education about risk factors, smoking cessation programs, and the importance of adherence to treatment plans. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education and stay abreast of the latest advancements in lung cancer care contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address geographical barriers and physician shortages. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient education platforms, can significantly improve access to care for West Milford residents. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with specialists, provide remote follow-up appointments, and offer support groups for patients and their families. The availability of reliable internet connectivity and the willingness of both physicians and patients to embrace telemedicine are key factors in its successful implementation.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for patients navigating the complexities of the disease. Mental health services can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and the emotional challenges associated with treatment and recovery. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, either within the primary care setting or through referrals to specialized providers, is a significant factor in determining the Lung Cancer Score.

Standout practices within West Milford or the surrounding areas can significantly elevate the overall Lung Cancer Score. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas: a high physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to preventive care, a strong focus on patient education, robust telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a model for other providers and improve the quality of care for all patients.

The specific practices and their standing in the area will need to be researched.

The quality of care is influenced by the resources available to patients. The availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as PET scans and MRI, is crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning. Access to specialized treatments, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and radiation therapy, is equally important. The proximity of these resources to West Milford and the ease with which patients can access them directly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for West Milford, WV (ZIP code 26451) is likely to be negatively impacted by the limited number of specialists, the potential for longer wait times, and the need for patients to travel for advanced care. However, the score can be improved by increasing the number of PCPs, enhancing the quality of primary care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring the availability of mental health resources. The commitment of local healthcare providers to continuous improvement and the implementation of innovative solutions are critical for improving the health outcomes for individuals facing lung cancer in this community.

This analysis provides a general framework for understanding the factors that influence the Lung Cancer Score in West Milford. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, it is recommended to utilize data visualization tools.

**Call to Action:**

For a detailed, data-driven visualization of healthcare resources in West Milford and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the factors discussed in this analysis and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.