02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.48 percent of the residents in 02644 has some form of health insurance. 26.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.84 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 02644 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 668 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02644. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 612 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 795 health care providers accessible to residents in 02644, Forestdale, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Forestdale, MA (ZIP Code 02644)

This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02644 (Forestdale, Massachusetts), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, including primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" perspective, considering the critical role primary care plays in early detection and management.

Forestdale, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its location on Cape Cod, while offering scenic beauty, can also influence access to specialized medical services. This analysis will delve into these nuances.

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

The cornerstone of effective lung cancer management is robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, addressing risk factors like smoking, and coordinating specialist referrals are all vital. Assessing primary care availability in 02644 requires examining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code or serving its residents. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and potentially, nurse practitioners and physician assistants who provide primary care services.

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves calculating the number of residents in 02644 and dividing it by the number of available PCPs. A lower ratio (more physicians per resident) generally indicates better access to care. However, this ratio alone doesn't tell the whole story. Factors like the age and health needs of the population, the presence of seasonal residents, and the capacity of each practice to accept new patients must also be considered. Data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and publicly available healthcare directories are essential for this calculation.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout primary care practices in Forestdale is important. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, preventative services, and coordination of care. Features to look for include:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often signifies adherence to high standards of care.
* **Electronic Health Records (EHR) Adoption:** Robust EHR systems facilitate efficient communication, care coordination, and data analysis, improving patient outcomes.
* **Preventative Care Focus:** Practices that actively promote and provide preventative services, including lung cancer screenings for eligible patients, are crucial.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience.
* **Specialized Services:** Some practices might offer additional services like smoking cessation programs or on-site diagnostic testing, which can improve the patient experience.

Identifying these practices requires careful review of online resources, patient testimonials, and potentially, direct contact with local healthcare providers. The presence of a well-regarded practice can significantly elevate the overall "Lung Cancer Score" for the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance:**

Telemedicine plays an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly in geographically dispersed areas. Its adoption within 02644 can significantly impact access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating:

* **Availability of Telemedicine Services:** Are PCPs offering virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, or remote monitoring?
* **Technology Infrastructure:** Do practices have the necessary technology (secure video platforms, patient portals) to support telemedicine?
* **Patient Access:** Are patients able to easily access and utilize telemedicine services?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Is telemedicine adequately covered by insurance plans accepted by local providers?

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients managing chronic conditions like lung cancer, allowing for more frequent and convenient check-ins with their healthcare providers. Its presence and accessibility are important components of the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Access to mental health resources is therefore a crucial element of comprehensive care. Assessing this involves evaluating:

* **Availability of Mental Health Providers:** Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within 02644 or easily accessible to its residents?
* **Integration of Mental Health Services:** Do primary care practices have systems in place to screen for mental health issues and refer patients to appropriate resources?
* **Support Groups and Counseling Services:** Are there local support groups or counseling services specifically for cancer patients and their families?
* **Accessibility and Affordability:** Are mental health services affordable and accessible to all residents, including those with limited financial resources?

The integration of mental health services into the healthcare ecosystem is critical for supporting patients throughout their cancer journey. A strong presence of these resources will positively influence the "Lung Cancer Score."

**Conclusion: A Holistic Perspective**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 02644 will be determined by considering all the factors discussed above. It's not a single, definitive number, but rather a composite assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. While Forestdale's size may present challenges, it also offers opportunities for a close-knit community to foster strong patient-provider relationships and ensure that every resident has access to the care they need.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Forestdale, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other relevant healthcare facilities, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community members seeking to navigate the healthcare system and improve access to care.