02571, Wareham, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.58 percent of the residents in 02571 has some form of health insurance. 51.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.19 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 02571 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,599 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02571. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 607 health care providers accessible to residents in 02571, Wareham, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score: Wareham, MA (ZIP Code 02571) - A Comprehensive Analysis

This analysis provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment for the Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02571) area, focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components in navigating a lung cancer diagnosis. This score aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within Wareham, providing insights for both residents and healthcare providers.

Wareham, a coastal town in Massachusetts, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its demographics, including an aging population and a potential prevalence of smoking history, necessitate a robust healthcare system capable of addressing lung cancer concerns. The "Lung Cancer Score" attempts to capture the strengths and weaknesses of this system.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of any effective lung cancer screening and early detection program rests on accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the likelihood of patients receiving regular check-ups, including those that might lead to the identification of lung cancer. In Wareham, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The analysis would investigate the current PCP-to-patient ratio within 02571, comparing it to state and national averages. This comparison would illuminate whether Wareham faces a shortage of primary care providers, a significant factor in the overall score.

Furthermore, the analysis would explore the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code. Are they concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there specific healthcare systems or practices that are particularly accessible to the population? This geographical analysis is essential for understanding access barriers.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Certain medical practices within Wareham may stand out due to their commitment to lung cancer screening, early detection, and comprehensive care. The analysis would identify and evaluate these practices based on several criteria. These include the implementation of evidence-based screening protocols, the use of advanced diagnostic technologies (such as low-dose CT scans), the availability of specialized pulmonologists and oncologists, and the integration of patient navigation services.

Practices that actively promote smoking cessation programs and provide educational resources on lung cancer risk factors would also receive high marks. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, involving primary care physicians, pulmonologists, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses, would be a key indicator of a comprehensive approach to lung cancer care. The analysis would also consider patient satisfaction scores and reviews, providing insights into the patient experience within these practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Wareham is crucial for lung cancer care. The analysis would assess the availability of telemedicine services for primary care consultations, specialist appointments (pulmonology, oncology), and follow-up care.

The ability to conduct virtual consultations can reduce travel burdens for patients, especially those with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, allowing for timely interventions and improved outcomes. The assessment would evaluate the types of telemedicine platforms used, their ease of use, and the extent to which they are integrated into the existing healthcare system.

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

A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of the "Lung Cancer Score." The analysis would investigate the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within Wareham and the surrounding areas.

It would also assess the integration of mental health services into the healthcare system. Are mental health professionals readily available to patients undergoing lung cancer treatment? Do healthcare providers offer mental health screenings and referrals? The presence of support groups, patient education programs, and palliative care services would also be considered. The analysis would also explore the availability of resources for caregivers, who often experience significant stress and emotional burden.

**Specific Considerations and Potential Challenges:**

Wareham's proximity to larger cities, such as Boston and Providence, presents both opportunities and challenges. While residents may have access to specialized care centers in these cities, transportation and travel costs can be barriers. The analysis would consider the accessibility of these regional resources, including the availability of transportation assistance programs.

The socioeconomic factors within Wareham also play a role. The analysis would consider the prevalence of health insurance coverage, the affordability of healthcare services, and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients. Addressing these socioeconomic disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to lung cancer care.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Wareham, MA (02571) provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This analysis underscores the importance of accessible primary care, the adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of specialized care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wareham and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialist clinics, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and help patients and providers make informed decisions.