01050, Huntington, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01050, Huntington, Massachusetts is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.96 percent of the residents in 01050 has some form of health insurance. 42.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.82 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 01050 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 481 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01050. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 423 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,067 health care providers accessible to residents in 01050, Huntington, Massachusetts.

This analysis focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care in Huntington, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01050), considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the overall support system for patients facing this challenging disease. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview, assessing various factors to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment. This analysis is not intended to be exhaustive, and further investigation may be necessary for a complete picture.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection and prompt referral are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Therefore, a key aspect of this analysis is evaluating the availability of primary care physicians in Huntington. This involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio, which provides insight into the potential workload and accessibility of each doctor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the ability of physicians to effectively screen for lung cancer, educate patients about risk factors, and provide appropriate referrals to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Assessing the quality is complex and requires evaluating factors like patient satisfaction, adherence to clinical guidelines, and the utilization of preventative services.

Beyond the availability of primary care, the broader healthcare infrastructure in Huntington plays a significant role. This includes the presence of specialized medical facilities, such as hospitals and cancer centers, that offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The proximity of these facilities to patients in 01050 is an important factor, as it impacts access to care and the convenience of treatment.

Standout practices within the Huntington area are those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This might include practices with a multidisciplinary approach, where specialists from various fields collaborate to provide comprehensive patient care. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research initiatives also contribute to advancing the field and offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element to assess. The use of telemedicine, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has expanded access to healthcare services, especially for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent travel and improving patient convenience. The extent to which practices in 01050 have embraced telemedicine technologies is a key indicator of their adaptability and commitment to patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer 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 support services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is therefore essential. Assessing the accessibility and quality of these resources within the Huntington area is an important component of this analysis.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical step. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide estimates of the population size and the number of practicing physicians in the area. Comparing this data allows for the calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio suggests better access to care, while a high ratio may indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and services.

The assessment of standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves gathering information from various sources, including patient reviews, physician directories, and healthcare rating websites. Examining the services offered, the expertise of the medical staff, and the overall patient experience can help identify practices that excel in lung cancer care. Furthermore, researching the practice's involvement in clinical trials and its commitment to adopting innovative technologies can provide additional insights.

Telemedicine adoption can be evaluated by examining the websites and communication channels of local medical practices. The presence of online appointment scheduling, virtual consultation options, and patient portals indicates a commitment to telemedicine. Furthermore, assessing the availability of remote monitoring devices and telehealth platforms can provide a more comprehensive picture of telemedicine integration.

The availability of mental health resources can be assessed by researching local mental health providers, support groups, and community organizations. This includes identifying the types of services offered, the availability of therapists specializing in oncology, and the accessibility of these resources for patients in Huntington. Furthermore, examining the collaboration between medical practices and mental health providers can provide insights into the integration of mental health support into the overall care plan.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Huntington, Massachusetts, offers a mixed picture. The accessibility of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized medical facilities, and the adoption of telemedicine technologies are all important factors to consider. The availability of mental health resources is also crucial for supporting patients facing the challenges of lung cancer. Further research and investigation are necessary to gain a more complete understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare environment.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Huntington, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare services and help you make informed decisions about your care.