26836, Moorefield, West Virginia Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 26836, Moorefield, West Virginia is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.86 percent of the residents in 26836 has some form of health insurance. 59.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.57 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 26836 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,139 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26836. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,393 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26836, Moorefield, West Virginia.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Moorefield, WV (ZIP Code 26836)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26836, focusing specifically on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will assess the quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial elements in a comprehensive lung cancer care model. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in Moorefield, West Virginia, and its potential impact on individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, is paramount. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) who are knowledgeable about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and referral pathways is therefore critical. In Moorefield, the concentration and quality of primary care practices will be a key determinant of the overall Lung Cancer Score. This includes evaluating the number of PCPs per capita, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of same-day or urgent care options.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care and a more responsive healthcare system. In the context of lung cancer, this translates to the ability to schedule timely screenings, receive prompt referrals to specialists, and maintain consistent follow-up care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 26836, specifically for PCPs, oncologists, and pulmonologists, will provide a crucial benchmark for evaluating the healthcare infrastructure's capacity to manage lung cancer cases.

Beyond physician availability, the presence of standout practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care is also important. This involves identifying clinics or hospitals that have implemented best practices in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. These practices might have established multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, to provide comprehensive care. They might also have a strong focus on patient education and support, offering resources and programs to help patients navigate the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment. Identifying these standout practices can help highlight models of excellence and provide valuable insights into the strengths of the local healthcare system.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Moorefield. Its adoption can significantly impact lung cancer care by facilitating remote consultations with specialists, providing access to educational resources, and enabling virtual support groups. The level of telemedicine integration within local healthcare practices will be assessed, including the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and follow-up care. The ability to connect patients with specialists and support services remotely can significantly improve outcomes, especially for those facing geographical barriers to care.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is crucial for helping patients cope with the psychological and emotional aspects of their illness. Assessing the presence and accessibility of these resources within the Moorefield healthcare system, including their integration with primary care and oncology services, will be a key factor in determining the overall Lung Cancer Score.

The presence of local hospitals with dedicated oncology departments and specialized equipment for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is another crucial factor. This includes access to advanced imaging technologies, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, as well as the availability of experienced radiologists and oncologists. The proximity to cancer treatment centers that offer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options is also essential. The ability to receive comprehensive care locally, or within a reasonable distance, significantly impacts patient outcomes and quality of life.

Furthermore, the availability of patient navigation services can greatly improve the experience of patients. These services can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators, either within healthcare practices or through community organizations, can streamline the care process and reduce the burden on patients and their families.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for ZIP code 26836 will reflect a composite assessment of all these factors. The score will be based on a weighted evaluation of the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, the presence of local oncology resources, and the availability of patient support services. A higher score will indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system, better equipped to manage lung cancer cases effectively.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Moorefield, WV, and the determination of the Lung Cancer Score is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive analysis of various data points, including publicly available information, healthcare provider directories, and potentially, direct outreach to local practices. The final score will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare environment, highlighting areas of strength and weakness, and informing efforts to improve lung cancer care in the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Moorefield, WV (ZIP code 26836) and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital facilities, and patient demographics, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, providing a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and facilitating data-driven decision-making.