02646, Harwich Port, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02646, Harwich Port, Massachusetts is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.50 percent of the residents in 02646 has some form of health insurance. 62.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.79 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 02646 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02646. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 891 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 812 health care providers accessible to residents in 02646, Harwich Port, Massachusetts.

The following analysis evaluates the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 02646 (Harwich Port, Massachusetts), focusing on factors relevant to patient outcomes. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice reputations, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, culminating in a call to action for enhanced geographic visualization.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Harwich Port, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing care for lung cancer. A higher ratio of patients per PCP can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Conversely, a favorable ratio facilitates proactive care, including regular check-ups and prompt referrals to specialists like pulmonologists and oncologists. While publicly available data may not offer precise physician-to-patient ratios at the ZIP code level, analyses of county-level data can provide a proxy. This analysis would involve assessing the number of PCPs practicing within Barnstable County (where Harwich Port is located) and comparing it to the county's population. This comparative data can then be used to infer the likely availability of PCPs within the specific ZIP code. Further research into the local healthcare landscape, including the presence of urgent care centers or community health clinics, is essential to paint a complete picture of access.

Reputation and the perceived quality of care are also important factors. Patient reviews, online ratings, and recommendations from other healthcare providers contribute to a practice's reputation. Identifying standout practices within Harwich Port requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes searching online directories like Healthgrades and Vitals, which provide patient reviews and ratings. Furthermore, consulting with local hospitals and specialists can reveal which practices are known for their expertise and commitment to patient care. Practices with a strong reputation often demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, employing the latest diagnostic tools and treatment protocols for lung cancer. They may also participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to innovative therapies. The reputation of a practice can also be influenced by its staff, including nurses, medical assistants, and support staff, who play a crucial role in the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant to healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine offers patients the convenience of virtual consultations, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine for lung cancer care in Harwich Port can be evaluated by investigating which practices offer virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and even remote monitoring of patients. This includes assessing whether practices utilize secure video conferencing platforms and provide access to patient portals for communication and sharing of medical information. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from specialists or have mobility limitations. It also allows for more frequent check-ins, which can be crucial for managing symptoms and adjusting treatment plans.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health support within the Harwich Port healthcare system is, therefore, a critical consideration. This involves assessing whether primary care practices and oncology centers offer on-site counseling services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. It also includes evaluating the availability of support groups, educational programs, and other resources that can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of lung cancer. Mental health support should be integrated into the overall care plan, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and emotional health.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility in Harwich Port (ZIP code 02646) requires a holistic approach. This involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice reputations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The specific findings for Harwich Port will vary based on these factors. To visualize these complex data points and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape, consider exploring the power of geographic mapping. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high physician density, access to telemedicine, and the availability of mental health services. Use CartoChrome maps to see the patterns and make informed decisions about your health.