Health Scores Near 01721, Ashland, Massachusetts
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01721, Ashland, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.52 percent of the residents in 01721 has some form of health insurance. 28.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.25 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 01721 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,847 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01721. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,180 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,929 health care providers accessible to residents in 01721, Ashland, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 01721, Ashland, Massachusetts
| Lung Cancer Score | 93 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 60 |
| Provider Score | 99 |
| Hospital Score | 36 |
| Travel Score | 75 |
| 01721 | Ashland | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Ashland, MA (ZIP Code 01721)**
This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support within Ashland, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01721). The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to address early detection and comprehensive patient care. The scoring considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer.
Ashland, a suburban community, benefits from its proximity to major medical centers in the Boston metropolitan area. However, local access to quality primary care remains a critical factor in early detection and effective management of lung cancer. This analysis strives to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashland, offering insights for both residents and healthcare providers.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**
Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in Ashland requires analyzing data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and national databases. The ratio provides a baseline understanding of access to care. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access, allowing for more personalized attention and potentially earlier detection of health issues, including lung cancer. This ratio is not the sole determinant of care quality, but it provides a fundamental metric.
The availability of PCPs is paramount. They serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath, which could indicate lung cancer. Early detection significantly improves survival rates. A robust primary care system, therefore, is essential.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**
Identifying "standout" practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based practices, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of technology. Practices that actively participate in screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, demonstrate a commitment to early detection.
Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within a practice, such as on-site radiology or respiratory therapists, can streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient convenience. Practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments further enhance accessibility. The presence of multilingual staff can also be a crucial factor in ensuring effective communication and care for a diverse population.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**
Telemedicine has emerged as a significant component of modern healthcare, particularly in primary care. Its adoption in Ashland practices is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility and responsiveness. Telemedicine offers several benefits in the context of lung cancer care. It allows for remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues.
The use of telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists located outside of Ashland. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients, who may require consultations with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and a willingness to leverage technology to improve care delivery.
**Mental Health Resources and Support**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referral networks is, therefore, essential. These resources may include on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or access to support groups.
Addressing the psychological aspects of lung cancer is critical for improving patient outcomes. Mental health support can help patients cope with anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges associated with the disease. Practices that prioritize mental health integration demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care.
**Primary Care Availability in Ashland**
The overall availability of primary care in Ashland is influenced by several factors, including the number of practicing physicians, the capacity of local practices to accept new patients, and the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities. Analyzing these factors provides a comprehensive picture of access to care.
The presence of community health centers or other safety-net providers can also play a significant role in ensuring access to care for underserved populations. These centers often offer a range of services, including primary care, mental health support, and social services.
**Conclusion**
This analysis underscores the importance of a strong primary care infrastructure in Ashland for addressing the challenges of lung cancer. While the community benefits from its proximity to major medical centers, the accessibility and quality of local primary care are paramount. Practices that prioritize early detection, embrace technology, and integrate mental health support are best positioned to provide comprehensive care.
For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Ashland, including the location of practices, physician availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and making informed decisions about your health.
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