01835, Haverhill, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01835, Haverhill, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.48 percent of the residents in 01835 has some form of health insurance. 30.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.95 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 01835 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,850 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01835. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,905 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,115 health care providers accessible to residents in 01835, Haverhill, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Haverhill, MA (ZIP Code 01835)

This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Haverhill, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01835). The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, considering factors impacting patient access, treatment options, and overall health outcomes. This is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed perspective based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends. The focus is on the availability and quality of resources for lung cancer patients, alongside the crucial role of primary care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and prompt intervention. This necessitates robust primary care services within the community. Haverhill's primary care landscape needs careful scrutiny. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services or the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine would be necessary to determine the exact ratio for 01835. However, even without precise numbers, the general trend of physician shortages in many areas is a factor to consider.

Beyond the raw numbers, the types of primary care practices available are important. Are there solo practitioners, or are larger group practices more prevalent? Group practices often have the advantage of shared resources, including access to specialists and advanced diagnostic equipment. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) is also significant. These centers are designed to serve underserved populations and often provide comprehensive care, including preventive screenings and chronic disease management, which are crucial for lung cancer prevention and early detection.

Standout practices in Haverhill would be those demonstrating a commitment to preventive care, including proactive lung cancer screening. This involves adherence to guidelines from organizations like the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommends annual lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for individuals at high risk. Practices actively promoting and facilitating these screenings, along with providing smoking cessation programs, deserve recognition. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability are also vital. EHRs facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, improving coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare delivery, especially in the context of cancer care. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased access to specialists, particularly for those living in rural or underserved areas. It can also reduce the need for travel, which can be challenging for patients undergoing treatment. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Haverhill, specifically for oncology and primary care, needs investigation. Are local practices utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, consultations, and patient education? The availability of virtual support groups and counseling services is also relevant.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore critical. Are these professionals integrated into primary care practices or available through referrals? The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, is also important for providing patients with a sense of community and shared experience. The accessibility of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with their diagnosis and treatment.

The analysis extends beyond primary care to consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. The presence of oncology specialists, such as medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is paramount. The proximity of these specialists to Haverhill is a factor. Are they readily accessible within the city, or do patients need to travel to Boston or other surrounding areas for specialized care? The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and clinical trials, also needs evaluation. Are local hospitals equipped with the latest technologies and treatment protocols?

The quality of care is also influenced by the hospital's accreditation and performance metrics. Hospitals with accreditation from organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality cancer care. The CoC sets standards for cancer programs, including multidisciplinary care, patient navigation, and supportive services. Publicly available data on hospital performance, such as survival rates and complication rates, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

The availability of patient navigation services is another key factor. Patient navigators assist patients in navigating the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, providing emotional support, and connecting them with resources. These navigators can be invaluable in helping patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and financial assistance programs. The presence of these services, whether through hospitals, cancer centers, or community organizations, is a positive indicator.

Finally, the analysis must consider the social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and housing stability, can significantly impact a patient's health outcomes. Areas with high rates of poverty or limited access to transportation may face greater challenges in accessing care. Addressing these social determinants is crucial for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer care for all residents of Haverhill.

This Lung Cancer Score analysis for Haverhill, MA (01835) highlights the critical factors impacting lung cancer care and primary care availability. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed data, the framework presented offers a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a more complete picture of the care landscape emerges.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Haverhill, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialists, explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**. These maps can visually represent the factors discussed in this analysis, offering a spatial understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution.