01542, Rochdale, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01542, Rochdale, Massachusetts is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.95 percent of the residents in 01542 has some form of health insurance. 39.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.85 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 01542 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 648 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01542. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 596 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,374 health care providers accessible to residents in 01542, Rochdale, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Rochdale, MA (ZIP Code 01542)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare in Rochdale, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01542), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The aim is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to this disease. The analysis will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective lung cancer management. Early detection through screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, relies heavily on a robust primary care infrastructure. In Rochdale, assessing primary care access requires examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A lower physician-to-patient ratio indicates better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups, preventative care discussions, and timely referrals to specialists. Data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with population figures, provides the foundation for calculating this ratio. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the acceptance of new patients by local practices. Practices with open appointments and efficient scheduling systems contribute to a higher score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) suggests greater availability and easier access to care. Conversely, a lower ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis will need to incorporate data from various sources to accurately assess the physician-to-patient ratio in Rochdale. This includes information on the number of PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Furthermore, the analysis should factor in the patient population served by these physicians, considering demographics and insurance coverage.

Standout practices within the Rochdale area can significantly impact the overall score. Identifying practices that excel in lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment is vital. This includes assessing their adoption of evidence-based guidelines, their use of advanced diagnostic technologies (such as PET scans), and their collaboration with specialists. Practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, are particularly valuable. The analysis will examine patient reviews, practice websites, and publicly available data to identify these standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. The analysis will assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for patient education and communication. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score" by enhancing access to care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but crucial aspect of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health services, such as counseling, therapy, and support groups, is essential for managing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health resources within the Rochdale area. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals, the availability of support groups specifically for cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Practices that prioritize mental health support will receive a higher score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the collective strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in Rochdale. This score is not a single number but a composite of various factors, each weighted based on its importance. The weighting will reflect the relative significance of each factor in influencing patient outcomes. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and primary care availability might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, although all factors contribute to the overall score. The score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the healthcare environment.

The analysis will also consider the availability of patient education resources. Access to reliable and understandable information about lung cancer, including screening guidelines, treatment options, and support services, is critical for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of educational materials, both online and in print, and the extent to which local practices provide patient education. Practices that prioritize patient education will contribute to a higher score.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the presence of any community-based initiatives aimed at improving lung cancer outcomes. This includes programs focused on smoking cessation, early detection, and patient support. The analysis will assess the effectiveness of these initiatives and their impact on the local community. The involvement of local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations can contribute to a higher score.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Rochdale, MA (ZIP Code 01542) will provide a comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare environment, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses in relation to lung cancer care. This analysis will offer valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, guiding efforts to improve access to care, enhance patient outcomes, and support the fight against this devastating disease.

For a detailed, interactive map visualizing the healthcare landscape of Rochdale, including physician locations, practice information, and resource availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an intuitive and informative way to understand the healthcare ecosystem and make informed decisions about your health.