02171, Quincy, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02171, Quincy, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.78 percent of the residents in 02171 has some form of health insurance. 34.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.03 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 02171 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,917 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02171. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,574 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,359 health care providers accessible to residents in 02171, Quincy, Massachusetts.

This analysis provides an assessment of lung cancer care resources and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 02171 (Quincy, Massachusetts), focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, considering physician availability, technological integration, and the crucial aspect of mental health support. The goal is to offer insights that could inform patient choices and highlight areas for potential improvement in the delivery of care.

The availability of primary care physicians is a cornerstone of effective healthcare, particularly in the context of lung cancer. Early detection and consistent follow-up are vital for successful treatment. In Quincy (02171), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise numbers fluctuate, it is essential to determine if the current ratio meets the needs of the population. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent screenings, and increased burden on existing providers. This can be further complicated by the aging population and the prevalence of chronic conditions, which often require regular primary care visits.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code is also important. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis is crucial for understanding accessibility. Public transportation options and the availability of parking at medical facilities also impact patient access. This is especially important for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations, who may face significant challenges in reaching their appointments.

The quality of primary care practices is another key consideration. Some practices may stand out due to their focus on preventative care, patient education, and care coordination. These practices often have established protocols for lung cancer screening, including recommendations for high-risk individuals and efficient referral pathways to specialists. They might also employ care navigators who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support and guidance throughout their treatment journey.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in areas like lung cancer care. Telehealth allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live far from medical centers, have mobility issues, or are undergoing treatment that may compromise their immune systems. The availability of telehealth services in Quincy, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access (e.g., user-friendly platforms, insurance coverage) are critical factors.

Furthermore, the integration of telemedicine with electronic health records (EHRs) enhances care coordination. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information, including medical history, test results, and treatment plans, seamlessly. This ensures that all healthcare providers involved in a patient's care are informed and can collaborate effectively.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it is a crucial component of holistic treatment. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within Quincy is therefore a significant factor. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups.

Ideally, primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals and integrate mental health screening into routine care. The availability of these resources, their accessibility (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times), and their integration with oncology services are all key indicators of a supportive healthcare environment.

The availability of specialized lung cancer care in the immediate area is also relevant. This includes access to pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. The proximity of these specialists, their expertise, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies (e.g., PET scans, targeted therapies, radiation therapy) are all important factors in determining the quality of lung cancer care.

The presence of multidisciplinary cancer care teams, where specialists from different disciplines collaborate to develop and implement treatment plans, is also indicative of a high-quality care environment. These teams often include nurses, social workers, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive support to patients.

In assessing the overall healthcare landscape in Quincy (02171), it is important to consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact patient outcomes. This includes the prevalence of smoking, access to healthy food options, and the level of health literacy within the community. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving lung cancer outcomes.

Finally, the availability of patient education resources, such as support groups, educational materials, and online resources, can empower patients to take an active role in their care. These resources can provide patients with the information and support they need to make informed decisions about their treatment and manage their symptoms effectively.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Quincy (02171), including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides detailed, data-driven visualizations that can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.