01747, Hopedale, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01747, Hopedale, Massachusetts is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.06 percent of the residents in 01747 has some form of health insurance. 28.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.76 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 01747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,546 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,010 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,410 health care providers accessible to residents in 01747, Hopedale, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01747 and Primary Care Availability in Hopedale

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support within ZIP code 01747 (Framingham, MA, and surrounding areas) and the town of Hopedale, MA. The primary focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs) and their ability to facilitate early detection through screening and referral, as well as the broader healthcare ecosystem's capacity to support patients through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This analysis will evaluate key factors including physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection is crucial, and PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or eligible for screening. The physician-to-patient ratio within 01747 is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards should be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio for the area. This data provides a baseline understanding of the healthcare access landscape.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. The presence of practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals (current or former smokers), is a significant factor. Practices that adhere to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for lung cancer screening, which recommend annual screening for individuals aged 50-80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history, are crucial. Researching local practices and their screening protocols is essential. Do they have dedicated screening programs? Do they actively educate patients about the benefits of screening? Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and oncologists? Identifying standout practices that prioritize preventative care and early detection will significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery. The integration of telemedicine into primary care practices can enhance access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Examining which practices within 01747 have embraced telemedicine and the specific services they offer (e.g., virtual visits, remote patient monitoring) is essential. This information will influence the Lung Cancer Score.

The availability of mental health resources is another vital component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals is critical. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, for patients and their families. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the integration of mental health services into the overall care model.

Analyzing the primary care landscape in Hopedale, a smaller community, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. The availability of PCPs in Hopedale, and the surrounding areas, is a key factor. Is there a sufficient number of PCPs to meet the needs of the population? Do residents need to travel to larger towns like Milford or Framingham to access primary care? The geographical proximity of Hopedale to 01747, and the interconnectedness of healthcare systems, is important. Residents of Hopedale likely utilize healthcare resources in the larger surrounding communities.

The analysis should consider the referral pathways from Hopedale's primary care providers to specialists, including pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiologists. Are there established relationships with specialists at hospitals or cancer centers in the region? Are referrals timely and efficient? The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the ease of access to specialized care for Hopedale residents.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability between practices is also a consideration. Does the primary care practice in Hopedale utilize EHRs? Can patient information be easily shared with specialists and other healthcare providers? Interoperability ensures continuity of care and facilitates informed decision-making.

The presence of community resources in Hopedale, such as support groups, patient navigators, and educational programs, is also important. These resources can provide valuable support to patients and their families throughout the cancer journey. The Lung Cancer Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 01747 and primary care availability in Hopedale is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of evidence-based screening practices, telemedicine integration, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility and quality of care. This analysis should be continuously updated, as healthcare landscapes evolve.

For a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care within 01747 and Hopedale, enabling a more informed assessment of the Lung Cancer Score.