26585, Metz, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26585, Metz, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.98 percent of the residents in 26585 has some form of health insurance. 45.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.16 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 26585 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 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26585. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 780 health care providers accessible to residents in 26585, Metz, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26585 and Primary Care in Metz, WV

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 26585, focusing on physician availability, particularly primary care, and related resources in Metz, West Virginia. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately informing patient access and potential areas for improvement. A "Lung Cancer Score" is implicitly created by assessing the factors that impact the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection and proactive primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is, therefore, a crucial metric. In ZIP Code 26585, which encompasses Metz, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Analyzing the number of PCPs practicing within the area against the estimated population provides a basic understanding of access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This is especially problematic for lung cancer, where timely intervention is paramount.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis helps identify potential "healthcare deserts" where access is significantly limited. The proximity of patients to these practices, the availability of transportation, and the presence of any physical barriers (e.g., difficult terrain) further complicate the issue.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the training and experience of the physicians, their familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines, and their commitment to preventive care. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs, offer regular lung cancer screenings for at-risk individuals, and provide comprehensive patient education are vital. These practices contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score" by proactively addressing risk factors and facilitating early detection.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of healthcare delivery in rural areas like Metz. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive virtual follow-up appointments, and access remote monitoring services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and can potentially improve the "Lung Cancer Score" by increasing accessibility.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can have a profound impact on a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the local healthcare system is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach and contribute to a higher "Lung Cancer Score" by addressing the emotional needs of patients.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 26585 is essential. These practices may demonstrate excellence in patient care, proactive screening programs, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Analyzing patient reviews, assessing the practice's adherence to best practices, and evaluating their commitment to patient education can help identify these exemplary providers. These practices serve as models for others and contribute to a higher overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the community.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is also crucial. While PCPs are the gatekeepers to care, patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer require specialized expertise. The proximity of these specialists, their availability for consultations, and their collaboration with primary care providers are all critical factors. A well-coordinated healthcare system, where communication between PCPs and specialists is seamless, contributes to a higher "Lung Cancer Score" by ensuring patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The presence of local hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, is also a key factor. These resources are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The availability of these resources within the ZIP code or in nearby areas directly impacts the "Lung Cancer Score."

Finally, the overall healthcare infrastructure in the area is important. This includes the availability of pharmacies, access to transportation, and the presence of community health programs. These elements contribute to a supportive environment that facilitates access to care and improves patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 26585 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialists, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. A low score indicates significant challenges in accessing quality lung cancer care, while a high score suggests a robust and supportive healthcare ecosystem.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 26585, including the geographic distribution of providers, the availability of resources, and potential areas for improvement, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their platform allows for detailed visualization of healthcare data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.