02043, Hingham, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02043, Hingham, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.50 percent of the residents in 02043 has some form of health insurance. 25.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.21 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 02043 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,312 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02043. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,319 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 02043, Hingham, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02043 and Primary Care Availability in Hingham, MA**

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 02043 (Hingham, Massachusetts) and assesses the availability of primary care resources, crucial for early detection and management of this disease. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the presence of mental health support, all factors influencing the overall “Lung Cancer Score” for the area. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem, ultimately impacting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals at risk.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in strong primary care. Early detection through screening, prompt referrals to specialists, and ongoing support are all critical. Hingham, as a suburban community, typically presents a different healthcare profile than a densely populated urban center. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the first metric. Accurate physician-to-patient ratios are difficult to calculate precisely without access to real-time, proprietary data. However, we can estimate based on publicly available information, such as state and national averages, coupled with local demographic data. The U.S. average is roughly 1 PCP per 1,380 residents. Hingham, with its relatively affluent population and potentially older demographic, may have a slightly higher need for primary care. Therefore, the ratio is a crucial indicator of access. A lower ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally translates to better access and more individualized care, positively influencing the Lung Cancer Score.

The quality of primary care practices is another key element. Are practices accepting new patients? What are the wait times for appointments? Do they offer comprehensive services, including preventative screenings like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals? Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening programs, adhering to guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), will score higher. This includes clear communication about risk factors (smoking history, age, etc.) and proactive outreach to eligible patients. The presence of dedicated patient navigators, who can guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, especially for specialized services. The ability to consult with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited specialist availability. Practices that offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations receive a boost to their score. The quality of the telemedicine platform (user-friendliness, secure data transmission, etc.) is also a consideration.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of lung cancer care. A diagnosis of lung cancer can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to support groups, both in-person and online, can provide invaluable emotional support and coping strategies. The availability of these resources directly impacts the overall well-being of patients and contributes to a higher Lung Cancer Score.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 02043 requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings and patient reviews. While it is impossible to provide specific practice names without real-time data, we can outline the characteristics of a high-scoring practice. These practices will likely: have a strong PCP network; actively promote lung cancer screening; offer telemedicine options; provide access to mental health support; and have positive patient reviews reflecting a commitment to compassionate and comprehensive care. They will also likely be integrated with local hospitals and cancer centers, ensuring seamless referrals and access to advanced treatments.

The impact of the local hospital system is also significant. Does Hingham have a well-regarded hospital with a dedicated oncology department? The availability of advanced diagnostic tools (e.g., advanced imaging, bronchoscopy) and treatment options (e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy) are crucial. The proximity of the hospital to primary care practices and the ease of communication between providers are also important factors. A strong, well-equipped hospital system significantly elevates the Lung Cancer Score.

Further, the role of community resources and support networks is important. Are there local chapters of organizations like the American Lung Association or the American Cancer Society? These organizations often provide valuable educational materials, support groups, and financial assistance. The presence of these resources indicates a supportive community, which can positively impact the patient experience and improve the Lung Cancer Score.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for doctors in ZIP code 02043 and the primary care availability in Hingham is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the strength of the local hospital system, and the availability of community support all contribute to the overall score. Practices that prioritize early detection, comprehensive care, and patient well-being will inevitably achieve a higher score, leading to better outcomes for individuals battling lung cancer.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hingham and beyond, including the precise locations of practices, their services, and patient reviews, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to identify providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.