02538, East Wareham, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02538, East Wareham, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.10 percent of the residents in 02538 has some form of health insurance. 49.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.68 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 02538 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 933 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02538. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 708 health care providers accessible to residents in 02538, East Wareham, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: East Wareham, MA (ZIP Code 02538)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, requires a nuanced approach. Focusing on East Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02538), this analysis will delve into the landscape of primary care, physician availability, and supporting resources, culminating in a 'Lung Cancer Score' assessment. This score aims to provide a general understanding of the area's capacity to address the needs of individuals potentially facing this serious illness.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection is paramount, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients exhibiting symptoms or at risk. In East Wareham, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and timely appointments. Publicly available data, such as information from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio. However, this provides a general picture and doesn't reflect the nuanced realities of practice availability, insurance acceptance, and patient load.

East Wareham's proximity to larger healthcare centers, such as those in neighboring towns like Wareham and Plymouth, can significantly impact access. Patients may seek specialists and advanced diagnostic tools in these locations. This necessitates an examination of referral patterns and the ease with which patients can access these resources. Transportation options, including public transportation and the availability of ride-sharing services, also play a role, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those who lack personal vehicles.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. This involves examining factors like patient reviews, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular screenings and smoking cessation programs, are highly valued. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays and basic lab work, can also improve the patient experience and expedite the diagnostic process. Practices with established relationships with pulmonologists and oncologists are particularly beneficial for patients requiring specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management. The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring, contributes to the overall 'Lung Cancer Score'. Practices that offer these services demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and psychologically challenging. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a crucial component of the support system. The presence of these resources within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals contributes positively to the 'Lung Cancer Score'. Furthermore, the availability of support groups and patient advocacy organizations can provide invaluable emotional support and information.

The 'Lung Cancer Score' for East Wareham (ZIP Code 02538) would be determined by weighting these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would be a significant factor, with a higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) contributing to a higher score. The presence of standout practices, particularly those with a focus on preventative care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and strong referral networks, would also elevate the score. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources would further enhance the overall assessment. The accessibility of specialists and advanced treatment options in nearby areas, coupled with transportation options, would also be considered.

The final 'Lung Cancer Score' would be a composite metric, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in East Wareham. A high score would indicate a strong capacity to provide early detection, diagnosis, and comprehensive care for individuals facing lung cancer. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support.

This analysis provides a general overview. A more in-depth assessment would require a comprehensive data collection process, including surveys of local practices, patient interviews, and a review of publicly available data. This would allow for a more accurate and granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Wareham.

The goal is to empower individuals and healthcare providers with the information needed to make informed decisions and improve the quality of care. This type of analysis is not static. It requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in East Wareham and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and potentially, data on screening rates and treatment options, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool can help you visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.