01253, Otis, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01253, Otis, Massachusetts is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.72 percent of the residents in 01253 has some form of health insurance. 38.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.82 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 01253 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 105 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01253. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 231 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 222 health care providers accessible to residents in 01253, Otis, Massachusetts.

The analysis below provides an overview of lung cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within the specified geographic parameters. The focus is on evaluating the healthcare landscape for individuals residing in ZIP Code 01253 and the town of Otis, Massachusetts, considering factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight potential standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and explore the availability of mental health support.

The concept of a "Lung Cancer Score" is, in this context, a composite assessment. It considers the availability and accessibility of resources directly impacting a patient’s journey, from initial screening to post-treatment care. This includes the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists (pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists) per capita, the presence of advanced diagnostic tools, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health services. The score is not a definitive ranking but a qualitative evaluation reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are fundamental indicators of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio of patients per physician can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced individual attention, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Analyzing the number of PCPs and specialists within and around ZIP Code 01253 is crucial. The town of Otis, with its rural character, may present challenges in this regard. The analysis will consider the proximity of larger medical centers and hospitals in neighboring areas, as these institutions often provide specialized care. The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, is critical for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices involves assessing the quality of care provided by individual physicians and healthcare facilities. This includes evaluating their experience, board certifications, patient satisfaction scores (where available), and the utilization of evidence-based practices. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer comprehensive screening programs, and provide multidisciplinary care (involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists) would be considered highly desirable. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, also contributes to a practice's overall rating.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in and around 01253 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and provide more timely care.

Mental health resources are a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The analysis will explore the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community. The integration of mental health support into cancer care programs, such as offering counseling services at the same location as medical appointments, is highly beneficial. The presence of support groups and educational resources for patients and their families will also be considered.

In the context of Otis, Massachusetts, the availability of primary care is a foundational element. The town's rural location may present challenges in accessing primary care physicians. The analysis will assess the number of PCPs serving the Otis community and the ease with which residents can obtain appointments. The proximity of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms is also relevant, particularly for managing acute symptoms or complications. The overall accessibility of primary care significantly impacts the early detection of potential lung cancer symptoms and the timely referral to specialists.

The healthcare landscape in and around ZIP Code 01253 and Otis, Massachusetts, likely presents a mixed picture. While the presence of larger medical centers in neighboring areas may offer specialized care, the rural nature of the region may limit access to primary care and certain specialists. The evaluation will consider the overall balance between these factors, aiming to provide a realistic assessment of the healthcare resources available to individuals affected by or at risk for lung cancer. The analysis will consider the presence of advanced diagnostic tools, such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, which can significantly improve early detection rates.

The availability of specialized treatment options, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, will also be considered. These advanced treatments have revolutionized lung cancer care, and their availability is a critical factor in assessing the quality of care. The analysis will assess whether practices in the area offer these advanced treatments or have referral pathways to centers that do.

The analysis will also consider the presence of patient education programs and resources. Providing patients with accurate and accessible information about lung cancer, its treatment options, and support services is essential for empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. The availability of educational materials, online resources, and patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the area is not a single number but a qualitative assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors. It is designed to provide a general overview of the healthcare environment and should not be interpreted as a definitive ranking of individual physicians or practices. It is essential for patients to conduct their own research, consult with their physicians, and make informed decisions about their care.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare resources available in ZIP Code 01253 and the surrounding areas.