02631, Brewster, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.82 percent of the residents in 02631 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.64 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 02631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,486 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02631. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 803 health care providers accessible to residents in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Brewster, MA (ZIP Code 02631)

This analysis provides a detailed assessment of the landscape for lung cancer care within Brewster, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02631), focusing on primary care physician availability and resources crucial for patient well-being. The goal is to provide a "Lung Cancer Score" framework, though a formal numerical score is not provided here. Instead, we will analyze key factors influencing the quality and accessibility of care, ultimately offering insights for residents and healthcare providers.

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are vital. In Brewster, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts these critical first steps. We will assess the physician-to-patient ratio, a fundamental metric. The national average for primary care physicians per 100,000 people is around 120. A higher ratio generally indicates better access. Brewster's specific ratio needs to be determined by consulting publicly available data sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of the potential for timely appointments and preventative care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices matters. Are the practices concentrated in one area, or are they geographically dispersed to serve the entire community? Analyzing the location of practices relative to the population distribution is crucial. This includes considering transportation options, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility limitations. This geographic analysis is important for understanding the ease with which patients can access care.

Identifying standout primary care practices in Brewster requires evaluating several factors. Reputation is key. Patient reviews, online ratings, and word-of-mouth recommendations can offer valuable insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall patient experience. Furthermore, we must consider the practice's approach to preventative care, specifically lung cancer screening. Does the practice actively promote and facilitate screenings for eligible patients, following the guidelines of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)? A proactive approach to screening significantly improves early detection rates.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, offering convenience and improved access, especially for those with mobility issues or living in geographically isolated areas. Assess the availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in Brewster. Do they offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and follow-up consultations? The extent of telemedicine adoption can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients managing chronic conditions or those experiencing symptoms that warrant prompt attention.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources is paramount. Primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. These resources should be easily accessible and affordable. Assessing the availability of mental health support within Brewster is crucial. Are there local therapists, counseling services, or support groups available? Does the local hospital or healthcare system offer mental health services specifically tailored to cancer patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the care continuum is essential for comprehensive patient support.

Specialty care availability is also a key component of the Lung Cancer Score analysis. While primary care is the entry point, access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is critical for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Assessing the proximity and availability of these specialists is vital. How far do patients need to travel to see a pulmonologist or oncologist? Are there any specialists located within Brewster, or do patients need to travel to neighboring towns or cities? The efficiency of referrals and communication between primary care physicians and specialists is also crucial.

The integration of technology within primary care practices is another important factor. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information management and facilitate communication between healthcare providers? Do they offer patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their doctors online? Technology can significantly improve efficiency, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience.

Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education is vital. Does the practice provide patients with educational materials about lung cancer, screening guidelines, treatment options, and supportive care services? Do they offer resources for smoking cessation, a critical factor in preventing lung cancer? The more informed patients are, the better equipped they are to make informed decisions about their health and actively participate in their care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Brewster, MA (ZIP Code 02631) involves a multifaceted evaluation of primary care availability, the quality of care, access to specialists, the adoption of technology, and the availability of mental health resources. While a formal numerical score is not provided, the analysis of these factors provides a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. This analysis is a snapshot in time, and the situation can change.

To gain a more visual and dynamic understanding of the healthcare landscape in Brewster, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, providing valuable insights for patients, healthcare providers, and community planners.