The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01756, Mendon, Massachusetts is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 99.02 percent of the residents in 01756 has some form of health insurance. 24.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.80 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 01756 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01756. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,029 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,026 health care providers accessible to residents in 01756, Mendon, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 01756, Mendon, Massachusetts
Lung Cancer Score | 98 |
---|---|
People Score | 77 |
Provider Score | 91 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 69 |
01756 | Mendon | 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: Doctors in ZIP Code 01756 and Primary Care in Mendon
This analysis evaluates the landscape of healthcare resources within ZIP code 01756 (representing the town of Holliston, Massachusetts) and specifically assesses primary care availability within the neighboring town of Mendon. The focus is on factors relevant to lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment. This score considers physician accessibility, technological integration, and the availability of supportive services, aiming to provide a comprehensive view for residents.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility in 01756**
The foundation of accessible healthcare lies in a sufficient supply of primary care physicians (PCPs). Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 01756 is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau provides the population of Holliston and the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, can signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments, especially for preventative screenings like those relevant to lung cancer. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment initiation. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is important. Are PCPs clustered in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the town, making access easier for residents in different areas? The presence of multi-specialty practices, where PCPs collaborate with specialists, is also beneficial. Such arrangements can streamline referrals for patients requiring further evaluation, such as those suspected of having lung cancer.
**Primary Care Availability in Mendon and its Impact**
Mendon, being geographically close to Holliston, represents a potential source of primary care services for 01756 residents. Evaluating the availability of PCPs in Mendon involves similar considerations as in Holliston: physician-to-patient ratios, the geographic distribution of practices, and the types of practices available. Examining the acceptance of new patients by Mendon-based practices is also vital. A practice that is not accepting new patients, regardless of its proximity, offers little benefit to Holliston residents seeking primary care.
The presence of specialized services in Mendon, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, is also relevant. While primary care is the initial point of contact, the availability of specialists within a reasonable distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The ease of referral between primary care practices in Holliston and specialists in Mendon, as evidenced by established referral networks, further enhances the healthcare ecosystem.
**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**
Identifying standout practices within both 01756 and Mendon requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including robust screening programs for lung cancer, are particularly valuable. This involves offering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans to eligible patients, in accordance with guidelines from organizations like the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).
Another key indicator is the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that actively educate patients about the risks of smoking, the importance of early detection, and the availability of smoking cessation programs are making a significant contribution to lung cancer prevention. The availability of these programs within the practice itself or through referrals to external resources is a significant plus.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Influence**
The integration of telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Practices that offer telehealth consultations can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving overall access to care.
In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for providing support and education to patients undergoing treatment. Remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual support groups, and access to specialists via video conferencing can significantly improve the patient experience and contribute to better outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care.
**Mental Health Resources: An Essential Component**
The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis can be significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare system is a crucial factor. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.
This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specifically for cancer patients. Addressing the mental health needs of patients can improve their overall well-being, enhance their ability to cope with treatment, and potentially improve their prognosis. The integration of mental health services is a key indicator of a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to healthcare.
**Lung Cancer Score Assessment**
Based on the factors discussed above, a "Lung Cancer Score" can be assigned. This score is not a precise numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare resources related to lung cancer. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the commitment to preventative care, and the integration of mental health resources.
A high score would indicate a healthcare environment with ample access to PCPs, a robust referral network to specialists, a commitment to preventative screenings, the use of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing care, limited resources for prevention and treatment, and a lack of integrated support services.
**Conclusion and Call to Action**
Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the resources available in 01756 and Mendon, specifically in the context of lung cancer.
To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, assess accessibility, and gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.
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