26812, Mathias, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26812, Mathias, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.97 percent of the residents in 26812 has some form of health insurance. 70.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.58 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 26812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 466 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 442 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26812, Mathias, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mathias, WV (ZIP Code 26812)

Analyzing the availability and quality of lung cancer-related healthcare within the Mathias, West Virginia (ZIP code 26812) area necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score reflects the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer within this specific geographic region.

The fundamental challenge in Mathias, a predominantly rural community, is the limited number of healthcare providers. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely significantly lower than both the state and national averages. This scarcity impacts access to primary care physicians (PCPs), who are crucial for early detection, screening, and referral. A low ratio often translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The geographical isolation further exacerbates this issue, making it difficult for residents to travel to larger medical centers for specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons.

Primary care availability in Mathias is a critical determinant of the Lung Cancer Score. The presence of a robust primary care network is essential for several reasons. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. They are responsible for initial assessments, ordering necessary diagnostic tests (like chest X-rays and CT scans), and referring patients to specialists if lung cancer is suspected. The availability of PCPs who are knowledgeable about lung cancer screening guidelines and comfortable discussing risk factors (smoking history, exposure to environmental toxins) is paramount. A high Lung Cancer Score requires a readily accessible and well-equipped primary care infrastructure.

Identifying standout practices within the area is difficult given the likely limited number of medical facilities. However, even in a rural setting, certain practices may demonstrate superior patient care. This could manifest in various ways: a commitment to preventative care, a focus on patient education, and the implementation of evidence-based practices for lung cancer screening and treatment. These practices, though potentially few in number, can significantly elevate the Lung Cancer Score for the region. Assessing the quality of these practices involves scrutinizing their adherence to national guidelines, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction surveys.

Telemedicine adoption is a potentially vital component of improving the Lung Cancer Score in Mathias. Telemedicine can bridge the geographical gap, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for accessing pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists who may not be readily available locally. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to second opinions. The level of telemedicine adoption by local healthcare providers, including the availability of necessary technology and the willingness of physicians to embrace this technology, directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A diagnosis of lung cancer can have a profound emotional impact, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is critical to supporting patients through their treatment journey. The Lung Cancer Score considers the presence of mental health services in the area, including the accessibility of these services and the integration of mental health support into the overall care plan.

The Lung Cancer Score for Mathias, WV (ZIP code 26812) is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare delivery. The low physician-to-patient ratio, the limited availability of specialized care, and the geographical isolation all contribute to a lower score. However, the score can be improved by focusing on key areas. Prioritizing the recruitment and retention of primary care physicians is essential. Increasing telemedicine adoption, particularly for specialist consultations, can significantly improve access to care. Integrating mental health services into the treatment plan is crucial for supporting patients' emotional well-being.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score can be enhanced by promoting patient education and awareness. This includes educating the community about lung cancer risk factors, the importance of early detection, and the availability of screening programs. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is vital to improving the overall Lung Cancer Score. This collaborative approach can help create a more comprehensive and patient-centered healthcare system.

The overall assessment of the Lung Cancer Score for Mathias, WV (ZIP code 26812) is a complex process. It requires a thorough understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic indicator of the quality and accessibility of lung cancer-related care. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The primary challenge is the need to overcome the limitations of a rural healthcare environment. This requires innovative solutions, such as telemedicine, and a strong commitment to collaboration and patient-centered care. Addressing the issues of physician shortages, access to specialists, and mental health support is critical to improving the Lung Cancer Score. The community's commitment to these goals will ultimately determine the overall health and well-being of individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer in Mathias.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mathias, WV (ZIP code 26812) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you analyze physician density, primary care availability, and other relevant factors. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a comprehensive view of the healthcare resources available in your area and make informed decisions about your health.