01746, Holliston, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01746, Holliston, Massachusetts is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.34 percent of the residents in 01746 has some form of health insurance. 23.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.03 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 01746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01746. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,098 health care providers accessible to residents in 01746, Holliston, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Holliston, MA (ZIP Code 01746)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 01746 (Holliston, Massachusetts), focusing on factors impacting early detection, treatment access, and overall patient care related to lung cancer. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in the fight against this disease. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Holliston, highlighting strengths and areas for potential improvement.

Holliston, a suburban community, presents a unique healthcare environment. While it benefits from proximity to larger medical centers, the accessibility of quality primary care and specialized oncology services within the immediate vicinity is paramount for timely intervention. A robust primary care foundation is critical for early screening and referrals, significantly impacting patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists per capita within 01746 provides insight into the potential for patient overload. High patient-to-physician ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as those from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau, can be utilized to calculate these ratios. A low ratio of PCPs to patients suggests a higher likelihood of timely access to routine checkups and preventative care, including lung cancer screenings for eligible individuals. The availability of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is also crucial. A sufficient number of pulmonologists ensures that patients with suspected lung cancer can receive prompt and specialized care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based screening protocols, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals. Practices actively promoting and implementing these screenings demonstrate a commitment to early detection, a key factor in improving lung cancer survival rates. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and integrated care systems facilitates seamless information sharing between PCPs, pulmonologists, and other specialists, improving care coordination. Practices that offer comprehensive services, including smoking cessation programs and patient education resources, also contribute to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural and suburban areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring services without the need for physical travel. For patients in Holliston, this can be particularly beneficial, reducing travel time and improving access to specialists who may be located outside of the immediate area. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and offer virtual consultations demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care and accessibility. The availability of telemedicine options can significantly improve the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a critical component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric care can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with the disease and improve their overall quality of life. The integration of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the Lung Cancer Score.

The Lung Cancer Score for Holliston, MA (01746) is not a single numerical value, but rather a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score reflects the community's overall capacity to provide high-quality lung cancer care, from early detection to treatment and support. The score is dynamic, and it can be improved by addressing areas of weakness and leveraging existing strengths.

The analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the assessment of telemedicine adoption, and the evaluation of mental health resources provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Holliston. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions about healthcare access and quality. For example, patients can use this information to select a primary care physician or pulmonologist who aligns with their needs and preferences. Healthcare providers can use the analysis to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance their services. Policymakers can use the data to allocate resources and to support initiatives that improve healthcare access and quality.

Ultimately, the goal is to improve the Lung Cancer Score, which translates to better outcomes for patients. By fostering a healthcare environment that prioritizes early detection, comprehensive treatment, and patient support, Holliston can significantly improve the lives of those affected by lung cancer.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Holliston, MA (01746) and explore physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability in a visually engaging and interactive way, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.