Health Scores Near 02558, Onset, Massachusetts
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The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02558, Onset, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.25 percent of the residents in 02558 has some form of health insurance. 53.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.82 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 02558 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 100 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02558. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 619 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,070 health care providers accessible to residents in 02558, Onset, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 02558, Onset, Massachusetts
| Lung Cancer Score | 66 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 35 |
| Provider Score | 73 |
| Hospital Score | 73 |
| Travel Score | 34 |
| 02558 | Onset | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 02558 & Primary Care in Onset
This analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 02558, focusing on the town of Onset, Massachusetts. We will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the potential for early detection and treatment of lung cancer, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a “Lung Cancer Score” assessment. This score is a conceptual framework, not a formal medical rating, and aims to highlight key factors impacting patient outcomes.
Onset, a coastal community within ZIP code 02558, faces unique challenges related to healthcare access. Its relative isolation from larger medical centers and its demographic profile necessitate a careful examination of available resources. The primary focus will be on how readily individuals can access primary care, a crucial factor in early lung cancer detection.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio & Primary Care Availability:**
The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. While precise figures for Onset specifically are difficult to obtain, data for Barnstable County (where ZIP code 02558 resides) can provide context. This county, like many rural or semi-rural areas, may experience a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to urban centers. This means that each primary care physician (PCP) potentially cares for a larger patient population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses, especially for conditions like lung cancer where early detection is paramount.
The availability of primary care physicians in Onset itself is crucial. We must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing, their specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and their acceptance of new patients. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants (PAs) also significantly impacts access, as they can provide a substantial portion of primary care services, including routine checkups, screenings, and patient education.
**Early Detection & Screening:**
Early detection is the cornerstone of successful lung cancer treatment. The availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the recommended screening method for high-risk individuals, is a key factor in our assessment. The presence of facilities offering LDCT scans within a reasonable travel distance from Onset is vital. This includes not only the availability of the technology but also the ease with which patients can access it. This encompasses factors like insurance coverage acceptance and the scheduling process.
Furthermore, the awareness and implementation of lung cancer screening guidelines by local PCPs are critical. PCPs play a vital role in identifying eligible patients based on age, smoking history, and other risk factors. They must then educate patients about the benefits and risks of screening and facilitate the process. A proactive approach by PCPs significantly increases the likelihood of early detection.
**Standout Practices & Their Impact:**
Identifying standout practices within or serving ZIP code 02558 is essential. We are looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including a focus on preventive measures like lung cancer screening. These practices may have implemented patient navigation programs to guide individuals through the screening process and provide support throughout their care journey. They might also offer extended hours, telehealth options, or multilingual services to improve access and convenience.
Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and are transparent about their performance are also highly valued. These practices demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and a patient-centered approach. Their success can serve as a model for other practices in the area.
**Telemedicine Adoption & Accessibility:**
Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Onset can significantly improve access to specialist consultations, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who are crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to receive expert opinions without the need for extensive travel.
The quality of telemedicine infrastructure is also a factor. This includes the availability of reliable internet access, the user-friendliness of telemedicine platforms, and the training provided to both patients and providers. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow can improve patient convenience and enhance the overall quality of care.
**Mental Health Resources & Integration:**
Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources and their integration into the healthcare system is therefore crucial.
This includes the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area and their willingness to work collaboratively with PCPs and oncologists. Integrated care models, where mental health services are provided within the primary care setting or in close coordination with oncology services, can improve patient outcomes. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources is also a significant factor.
**Lung Cancer Score Assessment (Conceptual):**
Based on the factors discussed, we can conceptually assess the “Lung Cancer Score” for Onset and ZIP code 02558. This score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on the following components:
* **Primary Care Access:** Physician-to-patient ratio, PCP availability, and acceptance of new patients.
* **Screening Availability:** Proximity to LDCT scan facilities, ease of access, and PCP adherence to screening guidelines.
* **Practice Excellence:** Presence of standout practices with a focus on prevention, patient navigation, and quality improvement.
* **Telemedicine Integration:** Adoption of telemedicine for specialist consultations and patient convenience.
* **Mental Health Integration:** Availability of mental health resources and their integration into the care pathway.
Each component contributes to the overall score, reflecting the community's capacity to detect, diagnose, and treat lung cancer effectively. A higher score indicates better access to care, proactive screening practices, and a supportive healthcare environment.
**Conclusion & Call to Action:**
Understanding the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02558, specifically Onset, is crucial for improving lung cancer outcomes. The availability of primary care, the implementation of screening programs, and the integration of mental health resources all play critical roles.
To visualize and further analyze the healthcare resources in Onset and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial data. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. This allows you to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and identify potential areas for improvement. Visit CartoChrome maps today to begin your exploration and empower yourself with the knowledge to advocate for better healthcare in your community.
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