01803, Burlington, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01803, Burlington, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 01803 has some form of health insurance. 30.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.31 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 01803 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,315 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01803. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,632 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,637 health care providers accessible to residents in 01803, Burlington, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score: Burlington, MA (ZIP Code 01803)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 01803 (Burlington, Massachusetts), focusing on factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and comprehensive patient care. The score considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of advanced diagnostic tools, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, all of which significantly impact patient outcomes. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed evaluation based on publicly available data and industry best practices.

Burlington, Massachusetts, a suburban community northwest of Boston, offers a relatively strong healthcare landscape. Its proximity to major medical centers in Boston, like Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, provides a significant advantage in terms of access to specialized expertise and advanced treatment options for lung cancer. However, the accessibility of these resources to the local community hinges on the quality and availability of primary care within the town itself.

Primary care availability is a critical component of the Lung Cancer Score. Early detection is paramount in improving survival rates. A robust primary care system, with readily accessible physicians, facilitates regular screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history of lung cancer). Burlington appears to have a reasonable primary care infrastructure, with several established practices. However, the exact physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access and potentially more personalized care, allowing for more time dedicated to patient education and preventative screenings. Publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios within 01803 should be analyzed to determine the local landscape.

Standout practices are identified based on several factors. These include the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management, and the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, promoting smoking cessation and lung cancer awareness, are also highly regarded. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer screening program, adhering to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations, is a significant positive indicator. Identifying practices that actively track their screening rates and patient outcomes is essential.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in modern healthcare. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, particularly those located in larger medical centers outside of Burlington. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering both video and phone consultations, are likely to score higher. This is especially crucial for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to transportation. Telemedicine also enables remote monitoring of patients’ symptoms and medication adherence.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they are a vital component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is also beneficial. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources will receive a higher score.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of advanced diagnostic tools within the community. While Burlington may not have its own comprehensive cancer center, access to these tools through local hospitals or partnerships with nearby facilities is essential. This includes access to low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scanners for lung cancer screening, advanced imaging modalities like PET/CT scans for staging and monitoring, and facilities for minimally invasive biopsies. The speed and efficiency with which these diagnostic procedures can be accessed significantly influence the patient's experience and treatment timeline.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the level of collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. A well-coordinated care team, with seamless communication and shared decision-making, is crucial for optimal patient outcomes. Practices that participate in multidisciplinary tumor boards and actively share patient information with specialists will score higher. The use of EHRs that facilitate information sharing between providers is a positive indicator.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 01803 reflects a combination of factors that influence the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. While Burlington benefits from its proximity to Boston's medical resources, the availability of high-quality primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the presence of advanced diagnostic tools are all critical components of a strong healthcare ecosystem. Understanding the specific physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption rates of advanced technologies, and the level of collaboration between healthcare providers is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare choices.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Burlington, MA, and explore the geographical distribution of these factors, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a dynamic and insightful view of healthcare resources, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.