01887, Wilmington, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01887, Wilmington, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.67 percent of the residents in 01887 has some form of health insurance. 23.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.49 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 01887 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,721 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01887. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,019 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,528 health care providers accessible to residents in 01887, Wilmington, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wilmington, MA (ZIP Code 01887)**

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within Wilmington, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01887), evaluating factors crucial to patient outcomes. The focus is on primary care physician (PCP) availability, resource accessibility, and the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient well-being. The analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Lung Cancer Score’ assessment, considering various aspects of care delivery.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management lies in early detection. This underscores the critical importance of primary care access. Wilmington's ‘Lung Cancer Score’ is heavily influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio within the community. A higher ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per PCP, can potentially lead to delayed appointments, decreased screening opportunities, and a less proactive approach to preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests easier access to routine check-ups, allowing for earlier identification of symptoms and timely referrals for diagnostic testing, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans. The availability of these scans is also vital. A high score will reflect the availability of LDCT scans and the ability of PCPs to order them for high-risk individuals.

Standout practices within Wilmington are those that prioritize comprehensive patient care. These practices are characterized by their commitment to patient education, proactive screening initiatives, and seamless coordination of care. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will recognize practices that integrate evidence-based guidelines into their workflows, ensuring that patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments. This includes practices that actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about lung cancer risks and promote early detection. The score will also evaluate the availability of patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ analysis. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in areas with limited in-person specialist availability. The score will consider the availability of telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered virtually (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring), and the ease of use for both patients and providers. The success of telemedicine relies on the practice's ability to integrate it into its workflow and to ensure that patients have the necessary technology and digital literacy to participate effectively.

Beyond the medical aspects of care, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ also assesses the availability of mental health resources. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The score will consider the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology care. The score will also evaluate the availability of support groups, both in-person and online, where patients can connect with others who are facing similar challenges. These resources are critical in providing patients with the emotional support they need to cope with their diagnosis and treatment.

The coordination of care is essential for optimal patient outcomes. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will recognize practices that have established strong referral networks with specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. This includes practices that use electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate the sharing of patient information, ensuring that all providers are informed about the patient's medical history, treatment plan, and progress. The score will also consider the availability of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, where specialists from different disciplines work together to develop and implement a comprehensive treatment plan.

The quality of care provided by hospitals and specialty clinics within and around Wilmington is also a critical factor. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will evaluate the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The score will also consider the hospital's experience in treating lung cancer, as measured by patient volume, survival rates, and participation in clinical trials. The presence of a dedicated lung cancer center, with specialized staff and resources, will be a significant factor in determining the score.

The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ will also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients. Lung cancer treatment can be expensive, and many patients struggle to afford the costs of care. The score will recognize practices and hospitals that offer financial counseling services, help patients navigate insurance coverage, and connect them with resources that can provide financial assistance. This is particularly important for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

In conclusion, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for Wilmington, MA (ZIP Code 01887) will reflect a complex interplay of factors, from PCP availability and telemedicine adoption to the availability of mental health resources and the quality of care provided by local hospitals. By considering these factors, the analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of lung cancer.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wilmington, including physician locations, hospital locations, and resource availability, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an interactive and informative way to understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and their impact on patient access.