01464, Shirley, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.35 percent of the residents in 01464 has some form of health insurance. 24.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.39 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 01464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,033 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,171 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 811 health care providers accessible to residents in 01464, Shirley, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: 01464 & Shirley, MA

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer care within the 01464 ZIP code and specifically addresses primary care availability in Shirley, Massachusetts. The goal is to evaluate the local landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement concerning access to care, early detection, and supportive services for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer. This assessment considers factors impacting the overall Lung Cancer Score, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The 01464 ZIP code encompasses the town of Shirley, a community that, like many, faces challenges related to healthcare access. A critical element of this analysis is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians (PCPs). A low ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. This directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score, as early detection is paramount for successful treatment outcomes. We need to investigate the specific PCP-to-patient ratio within Shirley, comparing it to regional and national averages. If the ratio is unfavorable, it signifies a potential bottleneck in the healthcare system, negatively impacting the ability of individuals to receive timely and appropriate care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are there any standout practices within Shirley or the surrounding area that demonstrate excellence in lung cancer screening and patient management? These practices may have implemented innovative approaches to patient care, such as proactive screening programs for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history, etc.) or streamlined referral pathways to specialists. Identifying and highlighting these practices is crucial, as they represent models of best practice that other providers can learn from and emulate. This involves assessing the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, the availability of patient education materials, and the overall patient experience within these practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its impact on the Lung Cancer Score is significant. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and access educational resources can significantly improve patient outcomes. We need to evaluate the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care providers and specialists serving the 01464 area. Are virtual appointments readily available? Are patients able to access remote monitoring devices or receive telehealth consultations for follow-up care? The extent of telemedicine integration directly influences the Lung Cancer Score, as it can mitigate geographical barriers and improve access to specialized expertise.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of the overall Lung Cancer Score. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. This assessment needs to determine the availability of mental health services within Shirley and the surrounding areas. Are there readily accessible mental health providers? Are there support groups specifically for individuals with lung cancer? The presence and accessibility of these resources directly impact the patient's well-being and their ability to cope with the challenges of treatment and recovery.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of specialized lung cancer care within a reasonable distance of 01464. This includes access to pulmonologists, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The proximity of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, is a key factor in the Lung Cancer Score. Are there comprehensive cancer centers nearby that offer multidisciplinary care, including access to clinical trials and advanced treatment options? The availability of these resources is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

In addition to the above, it is important to assess the availability of resources for smoking cessation within the community. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective smoking cessation programs can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease. This analysis needs to evaluate the availability of smoking cessation programs, including counseling, medication, and support groups, within Shirley and the surrounding areas. The effectiveness of these programs and their accessibility to the community directly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

The assessment should also consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in 01464. Are there any disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity? Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to receive timely and appropriate care. The Lung Cancer Score should reflect the efforts made to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to resources.

Finally, a critical aspect of the analysis involves the assessment of patient education and awareness programs. Are there initiatives in place to educate the community about lung cancer risk factors, early detection, and treatment options? The effectiveness of these programs in raising awareness and promoting early detection directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score. The analysis should assess the reach and impact of these programs within the community.

By thoroughly examining these factors, we can develop a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score for the 01464 ZIP code and specifically address primary care availability in Shirley. This score will provide a valuable tool for identifying areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare landscape, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for individuals at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

For a dynamic, visual representation of this healthcare landscape, including geographical insights into physician locations, practice specializations, and resource distribution, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Discover the spatial relationships within the healthcare ecosystem of 01464 and beyond.