02635, Cotuit, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02635, Cotuit, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.04 percent of the residents in 02635 has some form of health insurance. 45.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.84 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 02635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 406 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,066 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 800 health care providers accessible to residents in 02635, Cotuit, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02635 & Primary Care in Cotuit

This analysis aims to evaluate the landscape of lung cancer care, focusing on primary care availability and related resources within ZIP Code 02635 (Cotuit, Massachusetts) and the surrounding area. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support. This assessment is not a formal medical ranking but rather an informative overview for residents and healthcare stakeholders.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible and high-quality primary care. In Cotuit, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial early detection and diagnosis. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 02635 and the immediate surrounding areas is essential. This data should be compared to regional and national averages to determine if Cotuit faces a shortage or surplus of primary care providers.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider factors like the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history). Practices that proactively offer or facilitate lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans demonstrate a commitment to early detection, a critical factor in improving survival rates. The availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray or access to rapid referrals for CT scans, further enhances the efficiency of the diagnostic process.

The integration of telemedicine is another important component of the "Lung Cancer Score." Telemedicine offers several advantages, especially in a geographically dispersed area like Cape Cod. It can improve access to specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, who may not be readily available in Cotuit. Virtual consultations can reduce travel time and associated costs for patients, making it easier to receive timely advice and follow-up care. Practices that have successfully implemented telemedicine for lung cancer-related consultations and follow-up visits should receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, patient satisfaction with the virtual experience, and the integration of telemedicine with electronic health records are all important considerations.

Mental health support is often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but it is a crucial element of the overall "Lung Cancer Score." A lung cancer diagnosis, and its treatment, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals specializing in cancer care, and support groups, significantly improves the quality of care. Practices that proactively screen patients for depression and anxiety, and have established protocols for addressing mental health needs, should be recognized for their holistic approach. The integration of mental health services into the overall treatment plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Identifying "standout practices" within 02635 and the surrounding area is essential. This requires a deeper dive into the practices' reputations, patient reviews, and the specific services offered. Are there practices known for their expertise in lung cancer screening and treatment? Do they have a multidisciplinary team approach, involving pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists? Are they actively involved in clinical trials or research related to lung cancer? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence, patient-centered care, and continuous improvement should be highlighted. This evaluation should also consider the practices' adherence to the latest guidelines and their use of advanced technologies.

The "Lung Cancer Score" should also evaluate the accessibility of specialty care. While primary care is the initial point of contact, patients often require referrals to pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The ease of access to these specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the proximity of these specialists to Cotuit are all important factors. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance would significantly improve the "Lung Cancer Score." The cancer center should offer a full range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and supportive care services.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of patient education and support resources. Does the primary care practice provide patients with information about lung cancer, screening guidelines, and treatment options? Are there support groups or educational programs available for patients and their families? Practices that prioritize patient education and empowerment, and that provide access to resources such as the American Lung Association or the Cancer Research Institute, are likely to achieve higher scores.

Finally, the "Lung Cancer Score" should consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region. Are there hospitals with advanced lung cancer treatment capabilities? Are there transportation services available to help patients get to appointments? The availability of these supporting services can significantly impact a patient's ability to access and receive timely care. The presence of a strong network of healthcare providers, including specialists, hospitals, and support services, is crucial for delivering optimal lung cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 02635 and primary care availability in Cotuit involves a multifaceted evaluation. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and access to specialty care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

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