01343, Drury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01343, Drury, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.24 percent of the residents in 01343 has some form of health insurance. 32.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.76 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 01343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 23 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20 health care providers accessible to residents in 01343, Drury, Massachusetts.

The analysis below provides an overview of factors relevant to lung cancer care within the specified geographic parameters. It is crucial to understand that this is a preliminary assessment and should not be considered a definitive ranking or substitute for professional medical advice. The information presented is based on publicly available data and generalized assumptions.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01343 and Primary Care Availability in Drury**

Assessing the landscape of lung cancer care involves a multifaceted approach, considering not just the availability of specialists but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis focuses on two key areas: physicians practicing within ZIP code 01343 (which encompasses the town of Northfield, Massachusetts) and the accessibility of primary care services in the nearby town of Drury. The goal is to provide a preliminary understanding of the resources available for lung cancer patients and those at risk.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on a robust primary care infrastructure. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or those eligible for screening. In Drury, evaluating primary care availability requires examining the number of PCPs serving the community relative to the population size. This physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data on specific practice locations and their patient load would be needed for a precise assessment.

Within ZIP code 01343, the presence of specialists is crucial. While Northfield might not have a dedicated pulmonologist or oncologist, the proximity to larger medical centers is a significant factor. The availability of specialists in neighboring towns or cities like Greenfield or even further afield in Springfield or Boston is a critical consideration. The travel time to these specialists, the ease of access to transportation, and the availability of support services for patients and their families are all important factors in evaluating the overall care environment.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing the adoption of evidence-based practices, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, and the expertise of the medical professionals. Hospitals and clinics in the region should be evaluated for their accreditation status, their participation in clinical trials, and their use of advanced imaging technologies such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for lung cancer screening. The existence of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nurses, is a strong indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to serve patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer patients in the region should be assessed, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education).

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential. Assessing the presence of mental health services within the healthcare system, whether integrated within the medical practices or offered through external providers, is an important part of the analysis. The accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and wait times, should also be considered.

Identifying standout practices involves recognizing those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care. This may include practices that have implemented innovative screening programs, have achieved high patient satisfaction scores, or have demonstrated superior outcomes. These practices often serve as models for others and contribute to improving the overall quality of care in the region. This requires a detailed review of individual practices, including their staffing, equipment, and patient outcomes.

The evaluation of lung cancer care also necessitates a review of the broader community resources available to patients. This includes access to patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and accessing support services. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as those offered by cancer support organizations, is also crucial. These resources can help alleviate the financial burden of treatment and improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the lung cancer care landscape in ZIP code 01343 and Drury requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, the quality of care, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of community support services. This analysis provides a preliminary overview and highlights the key factors that influence the quality of care for lung cancer patients. It is important to note that this assessment is based on publicly available information and generalized assumptions.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in this region, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more detailed analysis of physician locations, specialist availability, and the distribution of healthcare facilities.