26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 26739 has some form of health insurance. 49.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.05 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 26739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 218 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26739 and Mount Storm Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 26739, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in the context of Mount Storm. The goal is to assess the resources available to patients, considering factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of this serious disease. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs and prompt referrals to specialists are critical for improving patient outcomes. Therefore, the availability and responsiveness of primary care physicians (PCPs) within and surrounding ZIP code 26739 are paramount. The area’s rural nature and the population's relative isolation contribute to the importance of this assessment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Data on physician distribution within ZIP code 26739, and the surrounding areas that serve the Mount Storm community, is crucial for understanding the existing challenges. The analysis should ideally include the specialties of the physicians, as primary care providers are the first line of defense in the fight against lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to lung cancer screening, patient education, and timely referrals. This includes looking at the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, and the implementation of patient navigation programs to guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment processes. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and promote smoking cessation are also important.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor, especially in rural areas like Mount Storm. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care remotely. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, pulmonology, and oncology can significantly improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for those undergoing treatment or follow-up care. The assessment should examine the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered, and the patient experience with these technologies.

The mental health aspect of lung cancer care is often overlooked, but it is vitally important. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services, is essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. This analysis should explore the integration of mental health services within local practices, the referral pathways to mental health professionals, and the availability of support groups specifically for lung cancer patients and their families.

The specific practices within and around ZIP code 26739 need to be assessed individually. This includes examining their staffing levels, appointment availability, and the range of services offered. Information about their patient populations, including the demographics and risk factors, can provide valuable insights. The analysis should also consider the practice’s affiliation with hospitals and specialist networks, as this can impact access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

The analysis should also consider the proximity to larger medical centers and specialist facilities. While local primary care is essential, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, is critical for advanced diagnosis and treatment. The ease of access to these specialists, including travel times and transportation options, can significantly impact patient outcomes.

The assessment of primary care availability in Mount Storm requires a holistic approach. The analysis needs to consider the unique challenges faced by rural communities, such as limited access to transportation, financial constraints, and the social determinants of health. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to provide recommendations for improving the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care in the region.

The analysis should also incorporate data on lung cancer incidence and mortality rates within ZIP code 26739, if available. This information can provide a baseline for assessing the effectiveness of current care practices and identifying areas where improvements are most needed. This data, combined with the assessment of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, will provide a comprehensive picture of the lung cancer care landscape.

The final ‘Lung Cancer Score’ should reflect a balanced assessment of all the factors discussed. It should be a concise and informative summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing a clear understanding of the resources available to patients. The score should be presented in a way that is easily understandable by both healthcare professionals and the general public.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for improving lung cancer care in ZIP code 26739 and the surrounding areas. By identifying areas of need and highlighting best practices, the goal is to empower patients, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to work together to improve outcomes and reduce the burden of this devastating disease. This data can then be used to inform policy decisions, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately, save lives.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in the area, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a detailed, map-based analysis of healthcare access and availability, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.