02655, Osterville, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02655, Osterville, Massachusetts is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 02655 has some form of health insurance. 49.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.41 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 02655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 400 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,308 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 490 health care providers accessible to residents in 02655, Osterville, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02655 and Primary Care Availability in Osterville**

Osterville, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02655), a charming village on Cape Cod, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area, specifically focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer screening and treatment, and the overall healthcare ecosystem. The analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive patient care, particularly for those at risk or diagnosed with lung cancer.

Assessing the healthcare landscape in Osterville begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a fundamental understanding of access to care. A favorable ratio indicates a greater likelihood of patients securing timely appointments and receiving personalized attention. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau provides insights into the population size of Osterville and the number of practicing PCPs within the 02655 ZIP code. This data, when analyzed, allows for the calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio, a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and a less accessible healthcare system.

Identifying standout practices is another key component of the analysis. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, employing innovative approaches, and providing comprehensive services. Researching the practices in the area involves examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and publicly available data on quality metrics, such as those provided by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and a focus on preventive care are particularly noteworthy. For lung cancer patients, practices that offer or readily facilitate access to lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are invaluable.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. The analysis will examine the extent to which PCPs in Osterville offer telemedicine services. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital health tools. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, which is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living at a distance from the practice.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive healthcare. Lung cancer, like any serious illness, can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis will investigate the availability of mental health services within the Osterville healthcare system. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, as well as the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care, which is essential for supporting patients through the challenges of lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond the core metrics, the analysis considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, who are crucial for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The proximity to hospitals and cancer centers that offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options is also evaluated. The presence of support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and community resources that provide information and support to lung cancer patients is another important factor. A robust healthcare ecosystem ensures that patients have access to the full spectrum of care they need, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and supportive services.

The analysis will also consider the demographics of the Osterville population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of risk factors for lung cancer, such as smoking, are taken into account. This demographic information helps to understand the specific healthcare needs of the community and tailor the analysis accordingly. For example, a higher proportion of older adults may necessitate a greater emphasis on preventive care and chronic disease management. A higher prevalence of smoking may underscore the importance of lung cancer screening programs and smoking cessation resources.

The analysis will also consider the cost of care. This includes the cost of primary care visits, diagnostic tests, and treatment options. The availability of insurance coverage and financial assistance programs is also evaluated. The cost of care can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for patients with limited financial resources. Practices that offer affordable services, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide information on financial assistance programs demonstrate a commitment to patient affordability.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in Osterville, MA (02655), involves a multifaceted approach. The analysis will provide a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, quality, and accessibility, with a particular focus on factors relevant to lung cancer screening and treatment. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The findings will offer valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and inform recommendations for improvement. This analysis provides a crucial snapshot of the current state of healthcare in Osterville, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and healthcare providers.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape of Osterville and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive and data-rich maps that can help you gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and resources in your community.