01518, Fiskdale, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01518, Fiskdale, Massachusetts is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.73 percent of the residents in 01518 has some form of health insurance. 40.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.90 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 01518 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 815 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01518. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 443 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 640 health care providers accessible to residents in 01518, Fiskdale, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Fiskdale, MA (01518)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support within the ZIP code 01518, specifically focusing on Fiskdale, Massachusetts. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors such as primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment will help residents understand the local healthcare landscape and identify potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with strong primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or those at high risk. The availability of PCPs in Fiskdale is a critical factor in our scoring. We will assess the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering the population size to calculate a physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. This ratio will be compared to both state and national averages to gauge the relative strength of primary care availability in Fiskdale.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We will investigate the presence of recognized, high-performing primary care practices in and around Fiskdale. This includes evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., NCQA), and the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to screening guidelines for lung cancer. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation programs and offering comprehensive health assessments will receive higher scores. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share information seamlessly with specialists are also important considerations, facilitating efficient communication and coordinated care.

The utilization of telemedicine is another key aspect of our analysis. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. We will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices and specialists in the area offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring services, and virtual follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, allowing patients to conveniently access care from their homes, will be favorably assessed. The availability of telehealth options can be especially beneficial for patients undergoing cancer treatment, reducing travel burdens and providing easier access to support services.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment often involve significant emotional and psychological challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of our "Lung Cancer Score." We will assess the proximity and accessibility of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the Fiskdale area. The presence of mental health services integrated into primary care practices or cancer centers will be highly valued. We will also investigate the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources specifically tailored to the needs of lung cancer patients and their families.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will also consider the proximity of specialized cancer care centers. While Fiskdale may not have its own dedicated cancer center, the accessibility of nearby facilities offering comprehensive cancer treatment, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology, is essential. We will evaluate the distance to these centers, the quality of their services (based on accreditation and patient outcomes), and the ease of patient referrals from local primary care practices. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, comprising oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists, will be a positive factor.

Standout practices within the area will be highlighted. These are medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care, innovation in healthcare delivery, and a proactive approach to lung cancer prevention and treatment. This could include practices that have implemented advanced screening technologies, actively participate in clinical trials, or offer specialized support services for cancer patients. We will consider practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education programs related to lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. The score will be influenced by various factors, including the availability of resources, the quality of care provided, and the adoption of innovative technologies. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare environment in Fiskdale, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

This analysis will consider the physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of accredited and high-performing primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support services. We will identify standout practices that are leading the way in lung cancer care and highlight any gaps in resources or services. The final "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect a holistic assessment of the healthcare environment in Fiskdale, providing valuable insights for both residents and healthcare providers.

The availability of data is key. While precise data on all aspects of healthcare can be difficult to obtain, we will rely on publicly available sources, including government databases, healthcare provider directories, and patient reviews. We will also consult with healthcare professionals and local community organizations to gather the most accurate and up-to-date information. The analysis will be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, this "Lung Cancer Score" analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare resources available in Fiskdale, MA (01518), relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and support. This includes an evaluation of primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to empower residents with the information they need to navigate the local healthcare system effectively.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Fiskdale and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and cancer care centers, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and user-friendly way to understand the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.