26753, Ridgeley, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26753, Ridgeley, West Virginia is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.04 percent of the residents in 26753 has some form of health insurance. 44.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.85 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 26753 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,208 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26753. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,362 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 450 health care providers accessible to residents in 26753, Ridgeley, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ridgeley, WV (ZIP Code 26753)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare within ZIP code 26753, focusing on factors pertinent to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, specifically examining the availability and quality of primary care services, the presence of specialists, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This score, while not a definitive metric, offers a snapshot of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address lung cancer within the Ridgeley community.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management rests upon robust primary care. In Ridgeley, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the "Lung Cancer Score." A higher density of PCPs, ideally with a low physician-to-patient ratio, facilitates early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals. The current physician-to-patient ratio in 26753 needs careful consideration. Information regarding this ratio can be sourced from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). A ratio exceeding the national average, particularly in a rural area, could negatively impact the score, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, acting as extenders of the primary care workforce, can partially mitigate the impact of a high physician-to-patient ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the implementation of evidence-based screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk of lung cancer (e.g., current or former smokers with a significant smoking history). Practices actively promoting and facilitating these screenings, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, will contribute positively to the "Lung Cancer Score." The ability of PCPs to effectively communicate risk factors, discuss screening options, and manage patient concerns is also a crucial factor.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is another crucial element. While Ridgeley may not have these specialists on-site, access to specialists within a reasonable travel distance is essential. The presence of a well-established referral network, connecting PCPs in 26753 to specialists in nearby cities like Cumberland, MD, or Morgantown, WV, is vital. A strong network ensures timely referrals for diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the ease of access to these specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is another factor in the score. Telemedicine platforms can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online educational resources, will receive a higher score. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.

Mental health resources are also considered. Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for supporting patients' emotional well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, will enhance the "Lung Cancer Score." This includes readily available information on support groups, counseling services, and mental health resources within the community.

Specific practices in Ridgeley and the surrounding areas will be evaluated. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the performance of individual practices. This includes their patient outcomes, adherence to screening guidelines, and patient satisfaction levels. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to early detection, comprehensive treatment, and patient-centered care will receive higher scores. The analysis will look for practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education, promoting awareness of lung cancer risks and screening options.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will also consider the presence of patient navigation services. Patient navigators help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, assisting with appointments, insurance issues, and access to resources. Practices that employ patient navigators or partner with organizations offering these services will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient support.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape in 26753. It will consider the availability and quality of primary care, the accessibility of specialists, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the performance of individual practices. The score is a snapshot of the current healthcare environment. It is intended to inform patients, providers, and policymakers about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

The ultimate goal is to improve the chances of early detection, timely treatment, and improved outcomes for individuals affected by lung cancer in Ridgeley.
The analysis will be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To explore the healthcare landscape of Ridgeley, WV (ZIP Code 26753) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals, visit CartoChrome maps.