02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.38 percent of the residents in 02562 has some form of health insurance. 28.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.33 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 02562 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 846 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02562. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 953 health care providers accessible to residents in 02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Sagamore Beach, MA (ZIP Code 02562)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning lung cancer care, within Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02562), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, a crucial entry point for early detection and management, and to gauge the overall preparedness of the local medical community to address this serious disease. We will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. In Sagamore Beach, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 02562 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with demographic information from the US Census Bureau, can provide an initial assessment. This data should be further refined by factoring in the age distribution of the population, as older individuals are at a higher risk for lung cancer and often require more frequent medical attention.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is critical. Identifying "standout practices" involves looking beyond basic metrics. This includes evaluating factors such as the physicians' board certifications, their experience in diagnosing and managing respiratory illnesses, and their commitment to preventive care, including smoking cessation programs and lung cancer screening protocols. Patient reviews, although subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care. Researching the practices that are accepting new patients is also important, as this ensures that access to care is not unnecessarily restricted.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services within Sagamore Beach's primary care practices is essential. This includes determining whether practices offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and even initial screenings for lung cancer risk factors. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as those used to track respiratory symptoms, can also be a valuable asset in managing patients with suspected or confirmed lung cancer.

The psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is crucial. Evaluating the availability of on-site mental health professionals, or partnerships with local therapists and counselors, is an important aspect of the analysis. Practices that offer integrated mental health services can provide comprehensive care, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of patients. This holistic approach can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialized services is also important. While Sagamore Beach may not have its own oncology centers, the proximity to hospitals and cancer treatment facilities in nearby towns and cities needs to be considered. Assessing the travel time to these facilities, the availability of transportation assistance, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists is a critical part of the overall evaluation. Access to specialized services, such as pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists, is crucial for timely diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer.

Another factor to consider is the community's awareness of lung cancer risk factors and screening guidelines. Primary care practices can play a vital role in educating patients about the importance of smoking cessation, the benefits of early detection through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, and the signs and symptoms of lung cancer. Assessing the extent to which practices are actively involved in community outreach and education programs can provide valuable insights into their commitment to preventive care.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of support groups and resources for lung cancer patients and their families. Local organizations, such as the American Lung Association and the Cancer Research Institute, often provide valuable support services, including support groups, educational materials, and financial assistance. Identifying the presence of these resources within the Sagamore Beach community, and assessing the level of collaboration between primary care practices and these organizations, can provide a comprehensive picture of the support system available to patients.

Finally, understanding the insurance landscape is crucial. The acceptance of various insurance plans by primary care practices and specialists, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients, can significantly impact access to care. Analyzing the insurance coverage options available within the 02562 ZIP code, and evaluating the financial burden faced by patients, is an important part of the assessment.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Lung Cancer Score" for Sagamore Beach involves a comprehensive assessment of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of specialized services, community awareness, and the insurance landscape. By thoroughly researching these aspects, a more complete picture of the healthcare infrastructure in place to support lung cancer patients can be developed. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better access to care for all residents of Sagamore Beach.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sagamore Beach, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and cancer treatment facilities, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare resources available in your area.