02341, Hanson, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02341, Hanson, Massachusetts is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.05 percent of the residents in 02341 has some form of health insurance. 33.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.83 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 02341 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02341. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,784 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 02341, Hanson, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hanson, MA (02341)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 02341 (Hanson, Massachusetts), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in navigating the complexities of lung cancer care. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals in Hanson, enabling informed decisions about their health.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on the availability of qualified medical professionals. In Hanson, the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs), is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including crucial lung cancer screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility to PCPs, facilitating earlier detection and intervention. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 02341 requires careful analysis of local healthcare provider data. This analysis would involve examining the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data sources, such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau, are essential resources for this calculation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Standout practices are those that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative health. These practices often have well-established systems for managing chronic conditions, coordinating specialist referrals, and providing patient education. Factors to consider include the practice's accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays. Practices actively involved in community outreach and health education initiatives also deserve recognition. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of online patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, direct communication with local healthcare providers.

The utilization of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. In the context of lung cancer, telemedicine can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support. The level of telemedicine adoption within Hanson's healthcare system is a key factor in this analysis. Assessing this requires examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local PCPs and specialists, the types of telehealth platforms used, and the extent to which these services are integrated into the overall care delivery model.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Mental health support is an integral component of comprehensive cancer care. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for patients coping with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of these resources within Hanson is a significant consideration. This includes evaluating the number of mental health providers practicing in the area, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, or the availability of referrals to specialized cancer support groups, further enhances the quality of care.

Furthermore, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons, is vital for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. While these specialists may not be directly located within 02341, the ease of access to these specialists through referrals from local PCPs is critical. This analysis will examine the proximity of specialist centers to Hanson, the referral patterns of local PCPs, and the availability of transportation options for patients. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable distance, offering a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, is highly desirable.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for Hanson, MA (02341) is a complex calculation that considers all the factors mentioned above. It requires a detailed assessment of the healthcare landscape, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and access to specialized care. The final score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare resources for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis.

This analysis underscores the importance of understanding the local healthcare environment. It provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the system in Hanson, MA, and highlights areas where improvements can be made. The availability of timely and effective care is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by lung cancer.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hanson, MA (02341), and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist centers, and mental health providers, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify key healthcare providers and assess the accessibility of services in your area.