02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.32 percent of the residents in 02189 has some form of health insurance. 30.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.10 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 02189 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02189. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,873 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,914 health care providers accessible to residents in 02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: East Weymouth (02189)

This analysis provides a nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape in East Weymouth, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02189), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care. We examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately culminating in a "Lung Cancer Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care. This score is not a definitive judgment but a comparative analysis designed to inform patients and healthcare providers alike.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care is robust primary care. Early detection and timely referrals are crucial for positive outcomes. In East Weymouth, assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with US Census Bureau information, allows for calculating this ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per doctor, is more favorable.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is vital. Are practices concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of East Weymouth? Proximity to public transportation and the presence of practices accepting various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, further contribute to accessibility. The physical infrastructure of these practices, including the presence of handicap accessibility and multilingual staff, also plays a role.

Standout practices within the 02189 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care, including a focus on lung cancer screening and prevention. Practices actively promoting smoking cessation programs and providing easy access to pulmonary function testing (PFTs) are considered more valuable. The availability of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between PCPs and specialists is another crucial factor. EHRs enable efficient data sharing, ensuring that critical information, such as imaging results and biopsy reports, is readily available to all involved in a patient's care.

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Its adoption in East Weymouth is a significant indicator of the healthcare system's adaptability and responsiveness. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to online patient portals enhance convenience and potentially improve patient outcomes. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered – whether they include follow-up appointments, medication management, or even virtual support groups – provides a more comprehensive understanding of its impact. The ability to connect patients with specialists remotely, especially pulmonologists and oncologists, is particularly important for lung cancer care.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is immense. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is therefore a crucial component of the Lung Cancer Score. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, partnerships with local mental health providers, or readily available referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of support groups, both in-person and virtual, specifically designed for lung cancer patients and their families, further enhances the score. The ability to address the psychological and emotional needs of patients is integral to their overall well-being and can significantly impact their treatment adherence and quality of life.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is a composite metric derived from the factors discussed above. It weighs each element based on its perceived importance in facilitating effective lung cancer care. The physician-to-patient ratio and geographic distribution of PCPs are weighted heavily, reflecting the importance of access. The availability of advanced screening tools, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, and the presence of smoking cessation programs also receive significant weight. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health resources are also factored in, reflecting the importance of convenience and comprehensive care.

The score is not absolute but relative, allowing for comparison between different areas or practices. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for lung cancer care, with better access to primary care, a commitment to early detection, and a focus on patient well-being. A lower score suggests potential areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine services, or increasing access to mental health resources. The score is designed to be a dynamic tool, reflecting ongoing changes in the healthcare landscape and encouraging continuous improvement in the delivery of lung cancer care.

The analysis also considers the presence of local hospitals and specialty clinics in the surrounding areas, such as Quincy, Braintree, and Weymouth. The proximity of these facilities, particularly those with oncology departments and radiation therapy centers, is crucial for patients requiring specialized treatment. The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities within these facilities further enhances the overall score, providing patients with access to the latest advancements in lung cancer treatment. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators and social workers, also plays a significant role.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for East Weymouth (02189) is a multifaceted assessment that considers various factors influencing the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care. While the specific score would require detailed data analysis, this framework provides a comprehensive understanding of the key elements involved. The score is designed to be a valuable tool for patients seeking care, healthcare providers striving to improve their services, and policymakers working to enhance the healthcare landscape in East Weymouth.

For a visual representation of this analysis, including geographic mapping of primary care practices, specialist locations, and patient demographics, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations that can reveal patterns and insights not readily apparent in traditional data formats.