01545, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01545, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.42 percent of the residents in 01545 has some form of health insurance. 23.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.27 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 01545 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,887 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01545. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,771 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,067 health care providers accessible to residents in 01545, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Shrewsbury, MA (ZIP Code 01545)**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within Shrewsbury, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01545), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. The aim is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

Shrewsbury, a town in Worcester County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger medical centers in Worcester, such as UMass Memorial Medical Center, influences the availability of specialized services. However, the strength of primary care within the town itself is crucial for early detection and coordinated care, particularly in the context of lung cancer.

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

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A higher ratio of patients per primary care physician (PCP) can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio fluctuates, publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These resources can reveal the number of PCPs practicing within the 01545 ZIP code and, by using population data, allow for an approximation of the patient-to-physician ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in specific practices or spread throughout the town? Are there underserved areas? This spatial analysis is essential for determining accessibility. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or community health centers (CHCs) would also influence the score, as they often serve a broader population and provide comprehensive care, including preventative screenings.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout primary care practices requires a multifaceted approach. Factors to consider include: patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of technology, and the integration of preventative care protocols. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as through the use of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals, would score higher. The availability of in-house diagnostic capabilities, like X-ray facilities, also streamlines the diagnostic process.

The presence of nurse navigators or care coordinators within a practice is particularly beneficial. These individuals play a critical role in guiding patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments and coordinating tests to providing emotional support. Practices with a strong emphasis on patient education and shared decision-making also contribute positively to the overall score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption within Shrewsbury’s primary care practices is a key factor in this analysis. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine can be especially valuable for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those who need follow-up care after a diagnosis or treatment.

The integration of telemedicine into the care pathway, including its use for medication management and behavioral health support, enhances the overall score. The availability of telehealth services for lung cancer follow-up appointments can reduce the burden on patients and improve adherence to treatment plans.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. The availability of on-site mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within primary care practices would significantly boost the score.

If these resources are not available directly within the practice, the proximity to mental health providers in the community, such as mental health clinics or support groups, is essential. The ability of PCPs to effectively screen for mental health conditions and make timely referrals is also a critical factor. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is essential for addressing the psychological and emotional needs of lung cancer patients.

**The Importance of Coordination and Communication**

Effective lung cancer care requires seamless coordination between primary care physicians, specialists (such as pulmonologists and oncologists), and other healthcare professionals. Practices that have established referral pathways and communication protocols score higher. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for information sharing between providers is also a positive indicator.

The ability of primary care practices to actively participate in multidisciplinary tumor boards or cancer conferences demonstrates a commitment to collaborative care. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive the most up-to-date and comprehensive treatment possible.

**Overall Lung Cancer Score and Considerations**

Based on the factors discussed, a "Lung Cancer Score" for Shrewsbury's primary care landscape would be determined. This score would reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the adoption of technology, the integration of mental health resources, and the level of coordination among healthcare providers. The score is a relative metric and should be interpreted with the understanding that the healthcare environment is constantly evolving.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Understanding the complexities of healthcare access and resources is essential for patients and providers alike. The ability to visualize these factors geographically can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for exploring the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, identifying areas with limited access, and visualizing the relationships between different healthcare providers.

Explore the healthcare landscape of Shrewsbury, MA (01545) and beyond with CartoChrome maps. Understand the distribution of primary care physicians, specialist availability, and other critical healthcare resources. Use CartoChrome to make informed decisions about your healthcare and advocate for improved access and care in your community.