02559, Pocasset, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02559, Pocasset, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 02559 has some form of health insurance. 49.35 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.56 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 02559 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 372 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02559. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,258 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,071 health care providers accessible to residents in 02559, Pocasset, Massachusetts.

The analysis below provides an overview of factors relevant to lung cancer care within ZIP code 02559 (Pocasset, Massachusetts), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, all crucial elements in the overall patient experience and the potential for early detection and effective treatment of lung cancer.

Pocasset, a community on Cape Cod, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians is paramount, serving as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms potentially related to lung cancer. Early and accurate diagnosis significantly improves patient outcomes. A strong primary care foundation ensures that individuals with concerning symptoms can promptly access necessary screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, recommended for high-risk individuals.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide insights. This data, alongside information on the age and health status of the population within 02559, allows for a more nuanced understanding of access to care.

Standout practices within the ZIP code, or those serving the community, are those that prioritize preventative care and early detection. These practices often have robust screening programs, including proactive outreach to patients at high risk for lung cancer. They may also employ advanced diagnostic tools and have established referral pathways to specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. Identifying these standout practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing publicly available performance data (if available), and assessing the practice's commitment to evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in geographically isolated areas or those with mobility limitations. Telehealth consultations can facilitate initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer more convenient and timely care, which is particularly important for patients with chronic conditions or those undergoing cancer treatment. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, reviewing insurance coverage for telehealth services, and understanding the availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential in cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health support into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This may involve providing access to therapists, counselors, or support groups. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves examining practice websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and assessing the integration of mental health services within the overall care plan.

The quality of lung cancer care is also influenced by the presence of specialized resources. Proximity to hospitals with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as PET/CT scanners, and comprehensive cancer treatment centers is essential. The availability of pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and medical oncologists within a reasonable distance significantly impacts the patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Evaluating the presence of these specialists involves researching hospital affiliations, reviewing physician directories, and assessing the accessibility of specialized care within the region.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care availability in 02559 needs to consider the interconnectedness of these factors. A practice with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio may be less effective if it lacks telemedicine capabilities or adequate mental health support. Similarly, a practice with excellent screening programs may struggle if it is not connected to specialists who can provide advanced treatment. A comprehensive evaluation requires a holistic approach, considering all aspects of care and the patient's experience.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors. Access to care can be influenced by income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation options. Patients with limited financial resources or transportation challenges may face additional barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care. Understanding the socioeconomic profile of the community is crucial for identifying potential disparities in care and developing strategies to address them.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for primary care availability in Pocasset (02559) is a complex undertaking. It requires a multifaceted approach that considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement to ensure that residents of Pocasset have access to the best possible lung cancer care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 02559, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialists, and to analyze demographic data related to healthcare access, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.