02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.19 percent of the residents in 02543 has some form of health insurance. 61.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.55 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 02543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 543 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 668 health care providers accessible to residents in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Woods Hole (ZIP Code 02543)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score (LCS) assessment for physicians practicing within the 02543 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. The LCS is a hypothetical construct, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and overall patient well-being in the context of lung cancer. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components influencing patient outcomes.

Woods Hole, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare access. The limited geographical area and population size affect resource allocation and the delivery of medical services. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, acknowledging these specific constraints.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental aspect of the LCS is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Woods Hole, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the likelihood of early lung cancer detection. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in screening, diagnosis, and referral. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally meaning more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care and more opportunities for preventative screenings, including those relevant to lung cancer.

The analysis needs to consider the patient demographics of Woods Hole. The age distribution of the population influences the demand for healthcare services. A higher proportion of older adults, a demographic at increased risk for lung cancer, necessitates a greater availability of PCPs and specialists. Furthermore, the presence of seasonal residents may impact the perceived physician-to-patient ratio, potentially creating fluctuations in access depending on the time of year.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within 02543 is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including robust lung cancer screening programs, significantly contribute to a higher LCS. These practices often employ evidence-based guidelines for screening, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, including those with a history of smoking. They also provide comprehensive patient education about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection.

Evaluating the practice's integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also essential. EHRs facilitate efficient communication between healthcare providers, enabling seamless referrals to specialists, and promoting coordinated care. Practices with well-integrated EHRs often demonstrate better patient management and a higher likelihood of adhering to recommended screening protocols. The quality of the practice’s referral network is also important, especially for complex cases.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly vital role in improving healthcare access, especially in geographically isolated areas like Woods Hole. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to expertise. For lung cancer patients, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with oncologists, pulmonologists, and other specialists, leading to more timely diagnoses and treatment plans.

The LCS considers the extent to which practices within 02543 utilize telemedicine. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and telehealth education programs receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet infrastructure in the area is a critical factor influencing the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine services.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Well-being**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the healthcare ecosystem is a key component of the LCS.

The analysis assesses the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the practices or through referral networks. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and provide access to counseling services receive a higher score. Collaboration between primary care physicians, oncologists, and mental health professionals is crucial for providing holistic patient care. Support groups and patient education programs are also valuable resources.

**Specific Considerations for Woods Hole**

The unique characteristics of Woods Hole necessitate specific considerations. The community's small size and close-knit nature may influence patient preferences and the delivery of care. Local practices may benefit from strong community relationships and a personalized approach to patient care.

The availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy and surgical oncology, is likely limited within the immediate area. This necessitates a robust referral network to larger medical centers. The LCS considers the efficiency and effectiveness of these referral pathways.

**Conclusion**

The Lung Cancer Score for physicians in 02543, and the primary care availability in Woods Hole, is a multifaceted assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis highlights the importance of comprehensive care, early detection, and patient well-being in the fight against lung cancer. While this is a general overview, further investigation and data analysis are needed to provide a more precise and data-driven assessment.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in the area, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to specialists, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape of Woods Hole and surrounding areas.