02048, Mansfield, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02048, Mansfield, Massachusetts is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.72 percent of the residents in 02048 has some form of health insurance. 28.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.24 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 02048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,469 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02048. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,089 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,861 health care providers accessible to residents in 02048, Mansfield, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Mansfield, MA (ZIP Code 02048)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of lung cancer care accessibility and related healthcare resources within the Mansfield, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02048) area. The focus is on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support, all factors influencing a patient's journey from potential diagnosis to treatment and recovery. The goal is to assess the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the region, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

A strong primary care foundation is crucial for early lung cancer detection. Regular checkups and screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history), are vital. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP code 02048 and the surrounding areas, alongside the population they serve. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator; a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access to care.

Data sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, along with publicly available demographic information from the U.S. Census Bureau, are essential for calculating this ratio. Furthermore, it's important to consider the types of primary care practices present. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups often offer a wider range of services and potentially better coordination of care, which can be advantageous for cancer patients.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care**

Identifying standout medical practices requires looking beyond simple physician numbers. Are there practices within or near 02048 that are known for their expertise in lung cancer screening and early detection? This involves researching practices with a focus on preventative medicine, those that utilize advanced imaging technologies (low-dose CT scans), and those that have a history of successfully identifying and managing lung cancer cases.

Furthermore, the proximity and accessibility of specialized cancer centers are critical. While 02048 may not have a dedicated oncology center, the ease of access to facilities in nearby towns or cities (e.g., Boston, Providence) is a significant factor. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists within a reasonable travel distance is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, and its adoption is particularly relevant in cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within the primary care practices and specialist offices in and around 02048 is crucial.

This involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and access to online patient portals. The ability to receive follow-up care, discuss test results, and manage medication remotely can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce the burden of travel, especially for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing side effects.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**

The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of the "Lung Cancer Score."

This involves evaluating the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, as well as the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients. Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers? Are there programs that address the unique needs of lung cancer patients, such as smoking cessation support or palliative care services? Access to these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life and their ability to cope with the challenges of cancer.

**Specific Examples and Considerations**

To illustrate the analysis, consider hypothetical examples. If a primary care practice in 02048 actively promotes lung cancer screening, offers low-dose CT scans, and has a strong referral network to a nearby cancer center, it would contribute positively to the "Lung Cancer Score." Conversely, if the physician-to-patient ratio is very high, and there is a lack of mental health support services, this would negatively impact the score.

The analysis must also consider factors such as insurance coverage, transportation options, and language accessibility. Are there resources available to help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system? Are there translation services available for non-English speakers? These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and receive appropriate care.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

Based on the data gathered and the factors discussed, a "Lung Cancer Score" for 02048 can be determined. This score provides a snapshot of the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of lung cancer care in the area. It will highlight strengths and weaknesses, offering insights into areas that need improvement.

The final score would be a composite, weighted based on the importance of each factor. For example, primary care availability and the proximity of specialized cancer centers might be given higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context of the area. The result will be a concise assessment of the overall landscape of lung cancer care in Mansfield.

**Call to Action**

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice specializations, and access to care resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic way to understand the healthcare landscape of Mansfield, MA, and beyond.