02659, South Chatham, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02659, South Chatham, Massachusetts is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02659 has some form of health insurance. 46.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.19 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 02659 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 223 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02659. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 360 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 455 health care providers accessible to residents in 02659, South Chatham, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: South Chatham, MA (ZIP Code 02659)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in South Chatham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02659), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly primary care availability and the resources available to patients. This evaluation considers the quality and accessibility of care, aiming to inform residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection is crucial, and primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact, facilitating screenings, referrals, and ongoing management. In South Chatham, assessing primary care availability is paramount. This involves examining physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized clinics, and the integration of mental health services.

Physician-to-patient ratios provide a general indication of access. While specific, up-to-the-minute data on this metric fluctuates, publicly available resources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards offer estimates. The analysis would involve researching the number of PCPs practicing within the 02659 ZIP code and comparing that number to the estimated population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, might suggest potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and care. Conversely, a higher ratio would indicate greater accessibility.

Beyond simple ratios, the distribution of PCPs matters. Are they concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the community? The geographic distribution impacts accessibility, especially for residents with limited transportation options. Furthermore, the types of practices available contribute to the overall picture. Are there solo practitioners, multi-specialty groups, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Larger systems often offer a wider range of services, including specialized diagnostic capabilities and access to oncologists and pulmonologists.

Standout practices within the 02659 area would be identified through various means. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from local healthcare networks would be examined. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer extended hours, or have a history of successful patient outcomes would be recognized. Practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), would be particularly noteworthy. The availability of convenient screening options, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, is a key factor in improving early detection rates.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The analysis would investigate the extent to which PCPs in South Chatham offer telehealth consultations for both routine checkups and follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can be especially valuable for patients with mobility issues, those living far from clinics, or those seeking mental health support.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital, often overlooked, component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The analysis would assess the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referral networks. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in oncology or chronic illness. Practices that proactively screen for mental health concerns and offer integrated behavioral health services would be highly valued.

The analysis would also explore the availability of support groups and patient education programs. These resources provide valuable support and information for patients and their families. Local hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations often offer these programs. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the analysis would consider the availability of resources for smoking cessation. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and effective cessation programs are crucial for prevention and improving patient outcomes. The analysis would examine the availability of smoking cessation counseling, medication, and support groups within the community.

The assessment would also evaluate the presence of any specialized lung cancer treatment centers or affiliations with larger cancer centers in the region. While South Chatham may not have a dedicated cancer center, access to specialized care through referrals is essential. The analysis would identify the referral patterns of local PCPs and assess the ease of access to these specialized services.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for South Chatham would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. It would take into account physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the availability of support services. The score would be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape.

This analysis is intended to be a dynamic tool, constantly updated as new information becomes available. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the availability of services and resources can change over time. Regular updates are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the healthcare landscape in South Chatham and surrounding areas.