02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.77 percent of the residents in 02072 has some form of health insurance. 36.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.60 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 02072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,797 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 55 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02072. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,099 health care providers accessible to residents in 02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Stoughton, MA (ZIP Code 02072)

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape in Stoughton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02072), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We will examine the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment journey. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment for individuals seeking care or residing in this area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon a robust primary care infrastructure. Stoughton’s primary care availability is a critical starting point. Assessing this involves evaluating the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 02072 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Furthermore, the ease of access to these physicians is paramount. Are appointments readily available? What is the average wait time for new patient consultations? These factors directly impact the speed with which individuals can receive initial screenings, diagnostic tests, and referrals to specialists, all essential for early detection and treatment of lung cancer.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a quantitative measure of access. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates better access to care. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be analyzed to determine the PCP-to-population ratio within the specified ZIP code and compare it to state and national averages. A significantly lower ratio might suggest potential challenges in accessing timely primary care services, which could indirectly affect lung cancer outcomes.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided by local medical groups and individual physicians. This assessment can be based on several factors. Patient reviews and ratings, readily available online through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer insights into patient experiences, including communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Furthermore, examining the credentials and specializations of physicians, such as board certifications and expertise in areas like pulmonology or oncology, is crucial. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to preventative care, including regular screenings and patient education, would be considered highly favorable.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions and providing follow-up care. The level of telemedicine integration within Stoughton's healthcare system is an important consideration. Does the local primary care network offer virtual consultations? Are specialists, such as pulmonologists or oncologists, accessible via telemedicine platforms? Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited specialist availability. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for more frequent and personalized follow-up.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is essential. Are there on-site therapists or counselors? Do primary care physicians routinely screen patients for mental health issues? A healthcare system that prioritizes mental well-being alongside physical health is better equipped to support patients throughout their treatment journey.

Specific examples of standout practices in Stoughton would be those demonstrating excellence in several areas. A practice that consistently receives high patient satisfaction scores, boasts a team of board-certified physicians, and actively utilizes telemedicine for follow-up appointments would be considered a strong contender. Furthermore, a practice that offers on-site mental health services or has established strong referral pathways to mental health professionals would be highly valued. The ability of a practice to coordinate care seamlessly between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Conversely, a practice struggling with long wait times for appointments, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health resources would likely be perceived less favorably. These factors can create barriers to care and potentially delay crucial interventions. The overall goal is to identify practices that prioritize patient needs and provide a holistic approach to healthcare.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, is also critical. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, timely access to specialists is essential for diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The presence of pulmonologists and oncologists within Stoughton or in nearby communities, along with their respective wait times for appointments, should be assessed. The ease of referral from primary care physicians to these specialists is another important consideration.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in Stoughton (ZIP Code 02072) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis, while not exhaustive, provides a framework for understanding the local healthcare environment and its potential impact on lung cancer care. The quality of care available in the area, the ease of access to physicians, and the availability of supportive services all contribute to the overall patient experience and ultimately, their health outcomes.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Stoughton and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice ratings, and specialist availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.