01845, North Andover, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01845, North Andover, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.81 percent of the residents in 01845 has some form of health insurance. 24.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.87 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 01845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,009 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01845. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,851 health care providers accessible to residents in 01845, North Andover, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score: North Andover, MA (ZIP Code 01845) - A Comprehensive Analysis

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 01845 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for early detection, treatment access, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Andover, Massachusetts, relevant to lung cancer care. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telehealth integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all vital components of a comprehensive lung cancer care ecosystem.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through screening, particularly for high-risk individuals, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, the availability and quality of primary care are paramount. North Andover, with its specific demographic profile, requires careful evaluation to ensure adequate resources are available to address potential lung cancer concerns.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require access to real-time, granular data often unavailable publicly, this analysis will attempt to approximate this critical indicator. Publicly available data, such as state licensing boards and insurance provider directories, can be used to estimate the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 01845 ZIP code. This data is then compared to the population of North Andover to provide a general sense of access.

This ratio is then further refined by considering the age distribution of the population. North Andover has a significant population of residents over 65, a demographic at higher risk for lung cancer. This demographic skew necessitates a higher concentration of PCPs to ensure adequate access to care. The analysis will also factor in the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the surrounding areas, as patients may need to travel for these services.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the adoption of best practices for lung cancer screening, such as utilizing low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible patients. Practices that actively screen high-risk individuals, including current and former smokers, demonstrate a proactive approach to early detection.

Another key factor is the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate data sharing between providers, improving care coordination and streamlining the referral process. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to manage patient data, track screening results, and ensure timely follow-up. The analysis will assess the extent to which practices in the area utilize EHRs and how effectively they leverage them for lung cancer management.

Additionally, the analysis will consider the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and smoking cessation resources demonstrate a commitment to preventative care. Patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and smoking cessation programs, are essential components of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in recent years. Its adoption can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be used for various purposes, including initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients.

The analysis will assess the extent to which PCPs in the 01845 ZIP code have adopted telemedicine. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into their practice workflows. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive lung cancer care plan.

The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health services in North Andover, including the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists available. It will also assess the extent to which PCPs screen patients for mental health issues and refer them to appropriate resources. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

**Conclusion:**

The Lung Cancer Score analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in North Andover, MA, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care resources relevant to lung cancer. This analysis aims to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, emphasizing the need for proactive screening, access to specialists, and the integration of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved access to care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in North Andover and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health facilities, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.