01521, Holland, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01521, Holland, Massachusetts is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.03 percent of the residents in 01521 has some form of health insurance. 42.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.60 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 01521 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 523 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01521. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 536 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 654 health care providers accessible to residents in 01521, Holland, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Holland, MA (ZIP Code 01521)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 01521 (Holland, Massachusetts), focusing on factors influencing early detection, treatment access, and overall patient care related to lung cancer. The scope also includes an evaluation of primary care availability within the town, recognizing its crucial role in preventative screenings and initial diagnoses. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a comprehensive Lung Cancer Score.

Holland, Massachusetts, a small town in Worcester County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within this community is essential for improving lung cancer outcomes. The geographic isolation, coupled with the potential for an aging population, necessitates a careful evaluation of healthcare resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Holland requires data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data will reveal the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, serving the community. A low ratio necessitates exploring solutions such as telehealth, mobile clinics, and partnerships with larger healthcare systems in neighboring towns.

Identifying standout practices within Holland is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in early detection through proactive screening programs, adherence to national guidelines for lung cancer screening (e.g., using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals), and patient education initiatives. Analyzing patient outcomes, referral patterns, and patient satisfaction surveys can help identify these high-performing practices. These practices often serve as models for best practices, which can be disseminated to other healthcare providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and facilitate access to specialists can significantly improve lung cancer care. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among Holland physicians requires surveying local practices. This assessment should consider the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and electronic health record (EHR) integration), the platforms used, and patient satisfaction with these services. High adoption rates, coupled with positive patient experiences, will contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of mental health resources is another important aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial for providing support and managing the psychological impact of the disease. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Holland involves identifying local therapists, support groups, and mental health programs. Partnerships between primary care practices, oncologists, and mental health providers can ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.

Primary care availability is a cornerstone of early lung cancer detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients and play a crucial role in screening for high-risk individuals, such as those with a history of smoking. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of PCPs in Holland, their patient load, and their adherence to lung cancer screening guidelines. Practices that proactively screen eligible patients and refer them to specialists for further evaluation will contribute positively to the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score for Holland, MA, is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the quality and accessibility of care. The score can be improved through initiatives like increasing physician-to-patient ratios, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources. The score should be regularly updated to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Holland will be influenced by the integration of these factors. A high score will indicate a community with strong primary care access, proactive screening programs, robust telemedicine capabilities, and readily available mental health support. Conversely, a low score may signal a need for improvement in several areas.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. This collaboration should focus on increasing access to care, promoting early detection, and ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their cancer journey.

The analysis also considers the challenges specific to Holland, such as its rural location and potential for limited resources. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, such as leveraging telemedicine, establishing partnerships with larger healthcare systems, and promoting community-based health programs.

The ultimate goal is to improve lung cancer outcomes in Holland by ensuring that all residents have access to the care and support they need. This requires a commitment to continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and a patient-centered approach to healthcare.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Holland, MA, and explore the factors contributing to its Lung Cancer Score, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can display physician locations, healthcare resources, and demographic data, offering a powerful way to understand and improve access to care.