01368, Royalston, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01368, Royalston, Massachusetts is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.44 percent of the residents in 01368 has some form of health insurance. 31.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.60 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 01368 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01368. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 277 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 46 health care providers accessible to residents in 01368, Royalston, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Royalston, MA (ZIP Code 01368)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within the context of Royalston, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01368). The focus is on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, specialist availability, and the integration of supportive services, all crucial factors in patient outcomes. This analysis will not provide specific rankings of individual doctors but rather evaluate the overall healthcare landscape.

The primary challenge for residents of Royalston, a rural community, is likely geographical access to healthcare. The town's location necessitates a consideration of travel distances and the availability of transportation options, particularly for patients undergoing treatment or follow-up care. This analysis will also examine the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A fundamental component of lung cancer care is the presence of accessible and capable primary care physicians. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, facilitate early detection through screening, and coordinate care with specialists. In evaluating the healthcare environment, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. This ratio indicates the number of residents per PCP, providing insight into the potential burden on existing providers.

Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), and the American Medical Association (AMA) can be used to estimate this ratio for ZIP code 01368 and surrounding areas. A higher ratio suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, including lung cancer screenings. The analysis will also consider the age and experience of the available PCPs, as this can influence the quality of care provided.

**Specialist Availability and Access**

Beyond primary care, access to specialists is crucial for lung cancer patients. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance is a significant factor in determining the quality of care. This analysis will examine the proximity of specialists to Royalston, considering travel times and the availability of transportation options.

The analysis will investigate the presence of affiliated hospitals and cancer centers in the region, as these facilities often house the necessary specialists and treatment resources. The availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and PET scanners, is also important. The analysis will also assess the availability of support services, such as oncology nurses, social workers, and palliative care specialists, as these professionals play a crucial role in supporting patients and their families throughout the treatment process.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Providers**

While specific rankings are not provided, the analysis will seek to identify any standout practices or healthcare providers in the surrounding area. This will involve examining factors such as patient reviews, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that have demonstrated a commitment to patient-centered care, early detection, and comprehensive treatment are likely to be highlighted.

The analysis will consider the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment. The analysis will also examine the availability of clinical trials and research opportunities, as these can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies. The analysis will also examine the availability of support groups and educational resources for patients and their families.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The analysis will assess the adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers serving the Royalston area. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth services.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for lung cancer patients, allowing them to access specialist consultations, follow-up appointments, and support services without the need for long-distance travel. The analysis will evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access, and the impact on patient satisfaction. The analysis will also consider the availability of reliable internet access in the area, as this is essential for telemedicine to be effective.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Services**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on patients' mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources and support services is therefore a critical component of comprehensive cancer care.

The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, in the Royalston area and surrounding communities. The analysis will also assess the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional challenges of cancer. The analysis will also consider the integration of mental health services into the overall cancer care plan.

**Conclusion**

This 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis provides a broad overview of the healthcare landscape in Royalston, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01368), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. The availability of primary care physicians, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are all critical components of the overall healthcare environment.

The analysis does not provide specific rankings of individual doctors. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available data and may not reflect the complete picture of healthcare resources in the area. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of action for their individual needs.

**Take Action: Explore the Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Royalston and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to explore physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and make informed decisions about your healthcare. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize this data.