02067, Sharon, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.97 percent of the residents in 02067 has some form of health insurance. 21.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.06 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 02067 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,175 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 46 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02067. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sharon, MA (02067)**

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within Sharon, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02067) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We'll delve into the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to address lung cancer risk factors, the presence of specialized pulmonology services, and the integration of supportive care elements. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to residents, ultimately influencing the "Lung Cancer Score" for this specific geographic area.

Primary care forms the bedrock of preventative care, including early detection and risk factor management for lung cancer. In Sharon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the community's overall health. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with data from the US Census Bureau, allows for the calculation of this ratio. Further, the degree to which PCPs are accepting new patients impacts accessibility. Practices with open panels generally contribute to a higher score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the degree to which PCPs are proactively screening for lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking history and exposure to environmental hazards. The implementation of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for eligible individuals, is a crucial element. Practices that actively engage in patient education about smoking cessation and provide referrals to smoking cessation programs demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Specialized pulmonology services are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The availability of pulmonologists within Sharon or in close proximity is a significant factor. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists, ideally affiliated with hospitals capable of performing advanced diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy and minimally invasive surgical interventions, is paramount. The volume of lung cancer cases treated at nearby hospitals, along with survival rates, also provides valuable insights into the quality of care available.

Standout practices in Sharon can be identified through various means. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer a glimpse into patient experiences. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding communication, patient education, and the overall quality of care likely contribute to a higher score. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or the Joint Commission often indicates a commitment to quality and patient safety.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the realm of healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can enhance the convenience and accessibility of care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing in more remote areas. The ability to access specialists remotely can also improve the overall quality of care. The integration of remote monitoring technologies, such as devices that track oxygen saturation or lung function, can further enhance patient management.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The integration of mental health screening tools into routine care can help identify patients who may benefit from additional support.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Sharon, MA (02067) is not simply a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, advancements in medical technology, and the evolving needs of the community. Ongoing data collection and analysis are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The impact of social determinants of health should also be considered. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and health literacy can significantly influence lung cancer outcomes. Addressing these disparities requires a comprehensive approach that involves collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another critical element. Practices that actively promote smoking cessation through counseling, medication, and support groups play a vital role in reducing lung cancer risk. The success rates of these programs, along with the accessibility of nicotine replacement therapy, contribute to the overall score.

The presence of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can also improve the score. These groups provide emotional support, education, and resources for patients and their families. They can also play a role in raising awareness about lung cancer and advocating for improved access to care.

The integration of palliative care services is also a key factor. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, including lung cancer. The availability of palliative care specialists, including physicians, nurses, and social workers, can help manage symptoms, provide emotional support, and assist patients and their families with end-of-life planning.

The presence of clinical trials for lung cancer treatments is another positive factor. Access to clinical trials can provide patients with the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in cancer care. The availability of clinical trials at nearby hospitals and research institutions can positively impact the score.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for Sharon, MA (02067) is a complex assessment that requires careful consideration of multiple factors. The availability of primary care physicians, specialized pulmonology services, mental health resources, and smoking cessation programs all play a critical role. The degree to which healthcare providers embrace telemedicine, integrate evidence-based guidelines, and address social determinants of health also influences the score. By regularly monitoring these factors and adapting to the evolving needs of the community, healthcare providers can strive to improve lung cancer outcomes for the residents of Sharon.

For a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharon, MA (02067), including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools offer a powerful way to analyze and visualize the factors that contribute to the "Lung Cancer Score" in your area.