02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02637 has some form of health insurance. 76.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.56 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 02637 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02637. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 210 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 939 health care providers accessible to residents in 02637, Cummaquid, Massachusetts.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP Code 02637, encompassing the Cummaquid area, requires a multifaceted approach. Assessing the quality of care demands a deep dive into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support, all factors intricately linked to patient outcomes. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape of lung cancer care in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in accessible and robust primary care. Cummaquid, as part of the larger ZIP Code 02637, needs to be evaluated for its primary care physician density. Are there enough primary care physicians (PCPs) to adequately serve the population? A low physician-to-patient ratio could lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced screening rates, and ultimately, poorer outcomes for individuals at risk of lung cancer. Conversely, a higher ratio, with a surplus of PCPs, suggests a more accessible system, allowing for timely interventions and preventative care.

Furthermore, the specific practices within 02637 warrant individual scrutiny. Are there any standout practices known for their commitment to early detection and comprehensive care? Do these practices offer lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, for eligible patients? The presence of such programs, coupled with a proactive approach to patient education and risk assessment, would significantly enhance the quality of care. The availability of these screening programs is crucial, as early detection is a key factor in improving survival rates.

Technology plays an increasingly vital role in modern healthcare, and its adoption in Cummaquid’s medical practices is a critical factor. Telemedicine, for example, can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive follow-up care, and access educational resources. The level of telemedicine integration within the primary care practices and the availability of specialist consultations via telehealth are important indicators of care accessibility and quality. Practices that embrace technology can improve efficiency, patient convenience, and overall care coordination.

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within the primary care practices or easily accessible through referrals, is a significant factor. Integrated mental health services can help patients cope with the emotional toll of the disease, improve their overall well-being, and enhance their adherence to treatment plans.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 02637, specifically for primary care physicians, is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a large number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially limit the time each patient receives. This can lead to delayed appointments, shorter consultations, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, including lung cancer screening. The ideal ratio varies, but a lower ratio generally translates to better access and more personalized care. The current local ratio needs to be compared to regional and national averages to understand its implications.

The practices within 02637 should be assessed on their adoption of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate information sharing between providers, enabling better care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. The ability of practices to share patient data seamlessly with specialists, including oncologists and pulmonologists, is a crucial indicator of care quality. Practices with robust EHR systems are better positioned to provide coordinated, comprehensive care.

The presence of specialized lung cancer care within the immediate area or nearby is another factor. Are there pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons readily available to patients in Cummaquid? The proximity of these specialists and the ease with which patients can access their services are critical for timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The existence of a multidisciplinary team, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and support staff, is a hallmark of high-quality lung cancer care.

The types of insurance accepted by the practices also play a role. Accessibility to care is affected by insurance coverage. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensure that a broader segment of the population has access to care. The financial burden of cancer treatment can be significant, and the availability of affordable care is essential.

The commitment of practices to patient education is another factor to be considered. Do practices offer educational materials about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, screening, and treatment options? Patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in their health and make informed decisions. The availability of educational resources, both online and in print, is an important indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 02637 and primary care availability in Cummaquid is thus a complex assessment. It is not a simple ranking but a synthesis of multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of screening programs, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of specialist care all contribute to the quality of care. Each practice should be evaluated based on these factors, and the results should be compared to regional and national benchmarks.

Understanding the landscape of lung cancer care in Cummaquid requires visualizing the data. To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant factors, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful way to visualize and analyze complex healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of care in your area.