01922, Byfield, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01922, Byfield, Massachusetts is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.80 percent of the residents in 01922 has some form of health insurance. 32.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.95 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 01922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,082 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01922. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 890 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,041 health care providers accessible to residents in 01922, Byfield, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01922 and Primary Care Availability in Byfield**

This analysis assesses the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 01922 (Georgetown, Massachusetts) and the related primary care environment in the adjacent community of Byfield, focusing on factors crucial for patient outcomes. These factors include physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the provision of mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis or at risk of developing the disease.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon readily accessible primary care. Byfield, a smaller community bordering Georgetown, is assessed for its primary care capacity. A crucial 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 potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, will be utilized to estimate this ratio. The analysis will consider the number of primary care physicians practicing within Byfield and the estimated population served.

Within ZIP code 01922, the analysis will delve into the availability of specialists crucial for lung cancer care. This includes pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists to the patient population is paramount. The analysis will identify the number of specialists practicing within the zip code or in nearby communities easily accessible to residents of 01922. The presence of multidisciplinary cancer centers, where specialists collaborate to provide comprehensive care, will be a significant positive factor.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the analysis will evaluate the characteristics of medical practices. The size of practices, whether they are solo practices, group practices, or part of larger healthcare systems, can influence the level of resources available. Larger practices often have access to advanced diagnostic equipment, such as PET scans and advanced imaging technologies, which are critical for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer. The accreditation status of these practices, such as whether they are accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), a program of the American College of Surgeons, will be considered. Accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The analysis will examine the adoption of telemedicine by practices within 01922 and those serving Byfield residents. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialists, reducing the need for travel and improving patient convenience. The availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows will be assessed. The use of telemedicine for lung cancer screening, such as virtual consultations for individuals at high risk, will be considered.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources for patients. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups specializing in cancer care. The integration of mental health services within medical practices, such as on-site counselors or referrals to mental health professionals, is a significant indicator of comprehensive care. The availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, specifically designed for lung cancer patients and their families, will be considered.

Standout practices within 01922 and those serving Byfield will be identified based on a combination of factors. These include a high physician-to-patient ratio, comprehensive specialist availability, advanced diagnostic capabilities, a strong telemedicine presence, and robust mental health support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials and research related to lung cancer will be given special consideration. The analysis will highlight practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a focus on improving outcomes.

The availability of lung cancer screening programs is a crucial factor in early detection and improved survival rates. The analysis will assess the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening programs within 01922 and the accessibility for Byfield residents. The analysis will consider the adherence to screening guidelines established by organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The presence of patient education programs about lung cancer screening will also be considered.

The analysis will also consider factors such as the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in the area. This includes the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking history. Understanding these factors is essential for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the community. The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

In conclusion, the 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis provides a multifaceted assessment of the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 01922 and the surrounding area, focusing on factors critical for lung cancer care. The analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

For a visual representation of this data and to explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources related to lung cancer, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.