01338, Buckland, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01338, Buckland, Massachusetts is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 01338 has some form of health insurance. 69.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.35 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 01338 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01338. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 41 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 269 health care providers accessible to residents in 01338, Buckland, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Buckland, MA (ZIP Code 01338)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare resources in Buckland, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01338), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. We will assess the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to battling this disease. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment and its preparedness to address the challenges posed by lung cancer.

Buckland, a small town in Franklin County, presents a unique healthcare profile. Its rural setting often translates to different resource allocation compared to more densely populated areas. Understanding these nuances is paramount when evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for residents, particularly those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

Primary care availability forms the cornerstone of early detection and management. Regular check-ups with a primary care physician (PCP) are essential for screening, risk assessment, and the timely referral of patients exhibiting symptoms. The density of PCPs within the ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, is a critical indicator. A low physician-to-patient ratio can create bottlenecks, delaying appointments and potentially hindering early diagnosis, which is vital for successful lung cancer treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more proactive and preventative care.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires analyzing data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and publicly available datasets. The specific number of PCPs actively practicing within 01338 and neighboring ZIP codes, combined with the population demographics, provides a clear picture of the availability. This ratio is then compared to regional and national averages to gauge the relative strength or weakness of the local healthcare infrastructure.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is also important. Are the PCPs in the area accepting new patients? Do they have experience in managing patients with chronic conditions, including those at risk for lung cancer? Do they actively promote preventative screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for eligible individuals? These factors influence the overall effectiveness of primary care in the early detection and management of lung cancer.

Identifying standout practices within the area is also crucial. Some practices may demonstrate exceptional commitment to patient care, employing innovative approaches to screening, diagnosis, and treatment. These practices may have a higher rate of early detection, a more patient-centered approach, or specialized expertise in lung cancer management. Researching the practices' websites, patient reviews, and professional affiliations can help identify these leading providers.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to specialists. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists, reducing the need for travel and improving patient convenience. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is a key factor in evaluating the healthcare infrastructure.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked, yet essential, aspect of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is critical for providing comprehensive patient support.

This includes assessing the availability of mental health services within the primary care setting, as well as the presence of specialized mental health providers who understand the unique challenges faced by cancer patients. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations is also important. These resources provide patients with emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. They can also help patients navigate the complex healthcare system and advocate for their needs.

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Buckland, MA, requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Each element contributes to the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system in addressing the challenges of lung cancer.

The analysis should also consider the specific demographics of Buckland, including age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation. These factors can influence the accessibility and utilization of healthcare services. For example, older adults may have greater difficulty accessing healthcare due to mobility issues or transportation limitations.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare environment in Buckland, MA, is vital for ensuring that residents have access to the best possible care for lung cancer. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the key factors that influence the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buckland, MA, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and demographics, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing the data and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.