01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.07 percent of the residents in 01945 has some form of health insurance. 28.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.09 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 01945 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,953 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01945. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,170 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,429 health care providers accessible to residents in 01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Marblehead, MA (ZIP Code 01945)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources within Marblehead, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01945), specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering physician access, primary care infrastructure, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all crucial elements in the fight against this disease. This analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive overview, with the understanding that healthcare landscapes are dynamic and subject to change.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is early detection. This necessitates robust primary care access, which is the first point of contact for many patients. In Marblehead, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, and evaluating the patient-to-physician ratio. A lower ratio, reflecting more physicians per patient, generally indicates better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau can be used to calculate this ratio. Any shortages in PCPs could lead to delayed diagnoses, impacting patient outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the availability of comprehensive services, such as routine screenings, patient education, and referral pathways to specialists. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventive care, including offering lung cancer screening for eligible patients, would score higher. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates information sharing and care coordination, which is vital for managing complex conditions like lung cancer. Practices with integrated EHR systems would receive a favorable rating in this assessment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in healthcare delivery, especially in the context of cancer care. Its ability to connect patients with specialists remotely is particularly valuable in areas with limited access to specialized services. The adoption rate of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in Marblehead is a key factor in this analysis. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals would be considered to have a higher "Lung Cancer Score." This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients who may have difficulty traveling to in-person appointments.

Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial factor. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or referrals to external resources, would receive a higher score. This includes offering access to behavioral health specialists who understand the specific needs of cancer patients.

Standout practices in Marblehead, based on the criteria outlined above, would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer care. This includes practices that offer lung cancer screening, have a low patient-to-physician ratio, actively utilize telemedicine, and provide access to mental health resources. These practices are likely to be more successful in providing timely diagnoses, comprehensive treatment, and supportive care for patients. Identifying these practices would involve reviewing practice websites, consulting with local healthcare professionals, and analyzing patient feedback.

The presence of specialized oncology services within or near Marblehead is also critical. The proximity to cancer centers and specialists, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation oncologists, directly impacts the timeliness and effectiveness of treatment. The availability of advanced treatment options, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, is also a factor. A high "Lung Cancer Score" would reflect easy access to these critical services.

The geographic distribution of healthcare resources within the ZIP code is also important. Patients in certain areas may have greater difficulty accessing care than others. This analysis would consider the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on location and transportation options. Practices located in central areas with good public transportation access would score higher.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for Marblehead, MA (01945) would be a composite measure reflecting all of the factors discussed above. This score would be a relative assessment, comparing the healthcare landscape in Marblehead to other communities. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for lung cancer patients, reflecting better access to care, comprehensive services, and supportive resources.

To further enhance this analysis, data from various sources would be integrated. This includes information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and private healthcare databases. Patient satisfaction surveys and community health assessments would also be considered.

This analysis is not a definitive ranking but rather a snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Marblehead. The "Lung Cancer Score" is intended to be a dynamic metric, reflecting changes in healthcare delivery and evolving patient needs. Regular updates and revisions would be necessary to maintain its accuracy and relevance. This analysis underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to lung cancer care, encompassing prevention, early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive support.

The information presented here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

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