26582, Mannington, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26582, Mannington, West Virginia is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.53 percent of the residents in 26582 has some form of health insurance. 48.13 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.88 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 26582 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26582. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 850 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 840 health care providers accessible to residents in 26582, Mannington, West Virginia.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mannington, WV (ZIP Code 26582)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare within and around Mannington, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26582), focusing on factors crucial to lung cancer care. We will evaluate the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all within the context of supporting patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon a strong primary care network. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact. In Mannington, assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including Fairmont and Morgantown. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from local healthcare systems, would be used to calculate this ratio.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes not only diagnostic capabilities, such as access to advanced imaging (CT scans, PET scans) and pulmonology expertise, but also a patient-centered approach. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer support groups, and coordinate care with specialists (oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists) are essential. Identifying these practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the scope of services offered, and evaluating their integration within the broader healthcare ecosystem.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Mannington. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. This includes remote consultations with oncologists, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients’ conditions. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a critical factor.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is significant. Mental health resources are therefore integral to comprehensive care. This includes access to mental health professionals (psychiatrists, therapists, counselors) who specialize in oncology or have experience working with patients facing serious illnesses. Assessing mental health resource availability involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating their capacity to serve the community, and determining the availability of support groups or other psychosocial support services. Collaboration between primary care practices, oncologists, and mental health providers is crucial for ensuring seamless care coordination.

The presence of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is a critical determinant of lung cancer care quality. Evaluating the availability of these specialists involves identifying their locations, assessing their experience and expertise, and determining their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. Proximity to larger medical centers, such as those in Morgantown, can be a significant advantage, providing access to advanced treatment options and clinical trials.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, other considerations can influence the Lung Cancer Score. These include the availability of smoking cessation programs, the presence of community outreach initiatives focused on lung cancer awareness and early detection, and the overall health of the community. A community with a high prevalence of smoking, for example, may require more robust smoking cessation programs. The presence of community health workers who can connect patients with resources and navigate the healthcare system is also valuable.

The analysis would also consider the financial aspects of care. The affordability of healthcare services, including insurance coverage and access to financial assistance programs, is a crucial factor for patients. The availability of resources to help patients navigate the complexities of insurance and healthcare costs is also important.

A thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape in Mannington requires gathering data from multiple sources. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing publicly available data from state and federal agencies, and consulting with community health organizations. The data gathered would be analyzed to create a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The final Lung Cancer Score would provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would highlight areas where the healthcare system excels and identify areas where improvements are needed. The score would also serve as a benchmark for monitoring progress over time and for informing decisions about healthcare resource allocation.

This Lung Cancer Score analysis is not just about numbers; it's about people. It is about ensuring that individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis in Mannington have access to the best possible care, from early detection to treatment and ongoing support. It is about fostering a healthcare environment that prioritizes patient well-being and empowers individuals to take control of their health. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions and advocating for improvements in the local healthcare infrastructure.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Mannington and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to understand the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care.