01003, Amherst, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01003, Amherst, Massachusetts is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.32 percent of the residents in 01003 has some form of health insurance. 11.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.26 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 01003 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,428 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01003. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 807 health care providers accessible to residents in 01003, Amherst, Massachusetts.

The following analysis evaluates the availability and quality of lung cancer care within ZIP code 01003, specifically focusing on Amherst, Massachusetts. This assessment considers factors relevant to patient access and overall well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals navigating the complexities of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Amherst, a vibrant college town, presents a unique healthcare environment. The presence of the University of Massachusetts Amherst and other educational institutions influences the demographics and healthcare needs of the community. The analysis begins by examining the physician-to-patient ratio, a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, reflecting a greater number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data on the number of primary care physicians and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, within the 01003 ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health are essential for this calculation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is heavily influenced by the characteristics of the medical practices themselves. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified specialists in pulmonology and oncology, the availability of advanced diagnostic equipment such as CT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, and participation in clinical trials. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the Commission on Cancer, is another important indicator of quality. Reviewing patient testimonials and online ratings can also provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Its impact on lung cancer care is significant, offering the potential to improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Amherst requires determining which primary care practices and specialist groups offer telehealth consultations. This information can be gathered by examining practice websites, contacting offices directly, and reviewing insurance provider directories. The availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support is especially relevant for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The mental health of lung cancer patients is often overlooked, yet it plays a critical role in their overall well-being and treatment outcomes. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be emotionally taxing, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Amherst involves identifying mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients. Assessing whether these professionals accept the same insurance plans as the primary care physicians and oncologists in the area is also crucial. The presence of support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients and their families.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of effective healthcare. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms that may indicate lung cancer. They are responsible for screening, early detection, and coordinating care with specialists. Assessing primary care availability in Amherst involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients within the 01003 ZIP code. The proximity of primary care practices to patients' homes and the availability of evening and weekend appointments are also important considerations.

The analysis also considers the integration of various healthcare services. Effective lung cancer care requires seamless coordination between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. Assessing the level of integration involves examining how well these different providers communicate and share patient information. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can facilitate this communication. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, which bring together specialists from different disciplines to discuss and manage patient cases, is another indicator of integrated care.

The evaluation of lung cancer care in Amherst, Massachusetts, requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes examining physician-to-patient ratios, assessing the characteristics of medical practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and understanding the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. The analysis provides a framework for understanding the complexities of lung cancer care in a specific geographic area.

This analysis underscores the importance of data visualization in understanding complex healthcare landscapes. The ability to map physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability can provide valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. CartoChrome maps offers a powerful platform for visualizing this data, allowing users to explore the healthcare environment in Amherst and other areas.