02632, Centerville, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02632, Centerville, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.24 percent of the residents in 02632 has some form of health insurance. 43.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.15 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 02632 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,265 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02632. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 887 health care providers accessible to residents in 02632, Centerville, Massachusetts.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 02632, specifically focusing on Centerville, Massachusetts, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize early signs, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists significantly impacts outcomes. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Centerville, and by extension ZIP code 02632, needs a sufficient number of PCPs to meet the needs of its population. Low ratios can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer patient outcomes. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, combined with information from the American Medical Association, can provide estimates of PCP density. This data, however, must be considered in conjunction with the age and health profile of the population within the ZIP code. A community with a higher proportion of elderly residents, or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, will likely require a greater concentration of PCPs.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, utilizing advanced imaging techniques like low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, should be recognized. Additionally, practices that adhere to established guidelines for lung cancer screening and treatment, as recommended by organizations like the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), deserve commendation. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can provide insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall quality of care. Furthermore, practices with a multidisciplinary approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists, are essential for comprehensive lung cancer management.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients, and provide access to specialists via telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows, offering virtual follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online educational resources, are demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the ZIP code is a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are essential. A lung cancer diagnosis can be devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either within the practice or through referral networks, are providing critical support to their patients. This may include access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The availability of these resources can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional challenges of the disease.

The specific practices within ZIP code 02632 must be evaluated individually. This requires a review of their websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data. Practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education should be prioritized. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and oncologists within the practice, or through established referral relationships, is a significant indicator of quality. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the ability to share patient information seamlessly with other providers are also important considerations.

The primary care availability in Centerville, as a component of the overall lung cancer care landscape, is equally critical. The number of PCPs, their specialization, and their willingness to embrace new technologies all influence the quality of care. The proximity of the practice to patients, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the practice's ability to communicate effectively with patients are all important factors. A well-coordinated primary care network can facilitate early detection, streamline referrals, and improve patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services is a crucial element. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, with access to advanced treatment options like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, is essential. The proximity of such a center to Centerville is a critical factor. The ability to access clinical trials, which offer patients access to cutting-edge treatments, is also an important consideration. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and financial counselors, can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and access the resources they need.

The specific characteristics of Centerville’s population, including demographics, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation, should be considered. These factors can influence the types of services that are most needed and the best ways to deliver them. For example, a community with a high proportion of elderly residents may require more home healthcare services and transportation assistance. A community with a high rate of smoking may benefit from smoking cessation programs.

The overall assessment of lung cancer care within ZIP code 02632, and specifically in Centerville, is complex. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By considering all of these factors, it is possible to identify areas of strength and weakness and to develop strategies to improve the quality of care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Centerville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.