01255, Sandisfield, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01255, Sandisfield, Massachusetts is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.94 percent of the residents in 01255 has some form of health insurance. 39.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 01255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 107 health care providers accessible to residents in 01255, Sandisfield, Massachusetts.

This analysis focuses on evaluating the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 01255, encompassing Sandisfield, Massachusetts, with a specific emphasis on primary care physician availability and related resources. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" analysis, although a formal numerical score cannot be generated without access to real-time, proprietary data. Instead, this analysis will provide a qualitative assessment based on publicly available information and established best practices in cancer care.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure, acting as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or at high risk. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Sandisfield, within the 01255 ZIP code, is therefore a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced screening opportunities, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Publicly available data, such as information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, can provide estimates of these ratios.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves factors like the PCPs' familiarity with lung cancer screening guidelines, their willingness to order appropriate diagnostic tests (e.g., low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their risks and concerns. The presence of established referral pathways to pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists is also crucial. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis would consider the integration of these referral systems within the primary care practices in the area.

Standout practices, if any, within the 01255 ZIP code would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive lung cancer care. This might include practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risks and screening. They might also have dedicated staff, such as nurses or patient navigators, to guide patients through the diagnostic and treatment process. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate efficient communication and data sharing between providers is another key indicator of a well-functioning practice. These practices should also demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, emphasizing shared decision-making and addressing the individual needs of each patient.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists via telehealth can significantly improve access to care for patients in Sandisfield. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis would assess the availability of telemedicine services among the primary care practices and specialists serving the 01255 ZIP code. This includes evaluating the types of telehealth services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the availability of necessary technology (e.g., internet access, telehealth platforms), and the training of healthcare providers in telehealth best practices.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis would evaluate the availability of mental health services within the 01255 ZIP code and the surrounding area. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists), the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan. The ability of primary care physicians to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals is also a key consideration.

The "Lung Cancer Score" analysis would also consider the availability of supportive care services, such as palliative care and rehabilitation. Palliative care focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, while rehabilitation helps patients regain function and improve their quality of life. The presence of these services, and their integration into the overall cancer care plan, is essential for providing comprehensive care to lung cancer patients.

Furthermore, the analysis would consider the availability of financial assistance programs and resources to help patients manage the costs of cancer care. Cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial burdens can significantly impact a patient's well-being. The availability of resources such as patient assistance programs, grants, and insurance coverage options is therefore an important consideration.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" analysis for doctors in ZIP code 01255 and primary care availability in Sandisfield would be a multi-faceted evaluation. It would consider physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of supportive care services. This assessment, while qualitative in this context, highlights the crucial elements that contribute to effective lung cancer care in the area.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 01255 ZIP code, including the distribution of healthcare providers, access to resources, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of geographic visualization.

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