02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02553 has some form of health insurance. 100.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 02553 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02553. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 30 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,066 health care providers accessible to residents in 02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Monument Beach, MA (ZIP Code 02553)

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP code 02553, Monument Beach, Massachusetts. The score considers factors crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and patient support in the fight against lung cancer. The focus is on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health services, all of which contribute to a patient's overall well-being and chances of survival.

Monument Beach, a coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The population demographics, including age distribution and potential risk factors like smoking prevalence, play a significant role in shaping the healthcare landscape. A comprehensive evaluation requires understanding the local context, including the availability of specialists, diagnostic facilities, and support networks.

The foundation of a strong Lung Cancer Score begins with accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less personalized care. In Monument Beach, an assessment of the current ratio, considering the number of practicing primary care physicians and the estimated population, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau can provide this baseline information. A favorable ratio, with a sufficient number of physicians to meet the community's needs, is a positive indicator for the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Some practices may stand out due to their commitment to preventative care, including proactive lung cancer screening. This involves adhering to guidelines from organizations like the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which recommend low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for high-risk individuals. Practices that actively implement these recommendations, offering screening to eligible patients and providing clear explanations of the benefits and risks, will receive a higher score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly in geographically dispersed areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health support remotely. For Monument Beach residents, telemedicine can mitigate the challenges of travel, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. Primary care practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and readily available communication channels, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. This is a key component of a high Lung Cancer Score.

Early detection of lung cancer is often critical to improving outcomes. The availability of diagnostic facilities, such as CT scan machines, within a reasonable distance is a significant factor. Patients need timely access to these resources for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Practices located near well-equipped imaging centers will contribute to a higher score. The efficiency of the referral process from primary care physicians to these facilities also plays a role. Streamlined processes and strong communication between primary care providers and diagnostic centers are essential.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis can be substantial. Mental health resources are, therefore, a crucial component of comprehensive care. The Lung Cancer Score must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting patients with chronic illnesses. Practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes access to support groups and educational resources for patients and their families.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the vicinity of Monument Beach is another critical consideration. While primary care physicians play a vital role in early detection and initial management, access to specialists is essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. The Lung Cancer Score must evaluate the proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the integration of primary care and specialist services.

The presence of patient navigators or care coordinators can also positively impact the Lung Cancer Score. These individuals help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, coordinate appointments, and provide emotional support. Practices that employ navigators or care coordinators contribute to a smoother patient experience and better outcomes.

Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems across different healthcare providers are important. EHRs facilitate seamless information sharing, improving communication between physicians and enhancing the coordination of care. Practices that utilize EHRs and actively share patient information with other providers contribute to a more integrated and efficient healthcare system.

The Lung Cancer Score for Monument Beach will also consider the community's health awareness and education efforts. Initiatives that promote smoking cessation, lung cancer screening, and early detection are essential. The presence of community health programs, educational materials, and support groups contributes to a higher score.

In conclusion, evaluating the Lung Cancer Score for Monument Beach (ZIP code 02553) requires a multifaceted approach. It demands assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of diagnostic facilities, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialists, and the integration of care coordination and EHRs. The community's health awareness and education efforts also play a crucial role. A high score indicates a healthcare system that prioritizes early detection, effective treatment, and comprehensive patient support, leading to improved outcomes for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Monument Beach and explore the distribution of resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and diagnostic facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights and help you understand the accessibility of healthcare services in your community.