01951, Newbury, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 01951, Newbury, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.82 percent of the residents in 01951 has some form of health insurance. 28.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.22 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 01951 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 355 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01951. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,096 health care providers accessible to residents in 01951, Newbury, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Newbury, MA (ZIP Code 01951)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within ZIP Code 01951 (Newbury, Massachusetts), considering factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The score is a composite, reflecting access to care, quality of services, and integration of supportive resources. The data draws from publicly available sources, including Medicare data, health insurance provider directories, and publicly accessible practice websites. It is important to note that this is an analytical overview and not a definitive medical endorsement.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score lies in accessible primary care. In Newbury, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. This analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, which provides a baseline understanding of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Publicly available data suggests a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio in Newbury, but further investigation into appointment availability and patient load is necessary for a complete picture.

Standout practices within the area are identified by analyzing their commitment to preventative care, including lung cancer screening programs. Practices that actively promote and facilitate screening for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, those with a family history) receive higher scores. This includes practices that utilize the latest guidelines from organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society. The availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening method for lung cancer, is a significant factor. Practices that offer on-site or readily accessible LDCT scans score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to conduct virtual consultations offers significant advantages, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility challenges. Telemedicine can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management, thereby improving access to care and potentially expediting diagnosis and treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and offer virtual appointments receive higher scores. The ease of use, availability of technical support, and integration with the practice's electronic health records (EHR) system are also considered.

The presence of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals receive higher scores. This includes access to individual therapy, group support, and psychiatric services. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

The analysis also considers the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive information about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options are favored. This includes the availability of educational materials, patient support groups, and access to smoking cessation programs. Practices that actively engage patients in shared decision-making and empower them to take an active role in their care receive higher scores.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score assesses the practice's adherence to established clinical guidelines. Practices that follow evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment receive higher scores. This includes adherence to guidelines from organizations such as the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the American Thoracic Society (ATS). The practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives and its commitment to continuous learning are also considered.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is another important factor. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of specialists are crucial for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. Practices that have strong referral networks with pulmonologists and oncologists, and that facilitate seamless transitions of care, receive higher scores. The ability to coordinate care between primary care physicians and specialists is essential for optimal patient outcomes.

The analysis also considers the practice's use of technology to improve patient care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHR) systems to manage patient data, coordinate care, and communicate with patients receive higher scores. This includes the use of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers online. The practice's commitment to data security and patient privacy is also considered.

Finally, the Lung Cancer Score considers patient satisfaction. Practices that receive positive reviews from patients and demonstrate a commitment to providing patient-centered care receive higher scores. This includes practices that are responsive to patient needs, provide clear and concise communication, and treat patients with respect and compassion. The practice's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is also considered.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for primary care physicians in Newbury, MA (01951) is a complex assessment that considers a variety of factors. The ultimate goal is to identify practices that provide high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered care, particularly in the context of lung cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating these practices and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize the distribution of these practices, their proximity to specialists, and other relevant geographic factors, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a dynamic platform for understanding the healthcare landscape in Newbury and beyond.