02670, West Dennis, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02670, West Dennis, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.80 percent of the residents in 02670 has some form of health insurance. 59.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.93 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 02670 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 62 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02670. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 579 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 599 health care providers accessible to residents in 02670, West Dennis, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: West Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02670)

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare in West Dennis, Massachusetts, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, especially when considering a critical illness like lung cancer. This analysis will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 02670 ZIP code, focusing on factors that impact early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources – all crucial elements in a comprehensive lung cancer care model.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management begins with accessible and proactive primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, such as low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans for high-risk individuals, significantly improves survival rates. Therefore, a robust primary care infrastructure is paramount. In West Dennis, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial initial benchmark. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine will be used to estimate this ratio. This data, however, must be interpreted cautiously. It doesn't fully capture the nuances of physician specialization or the availability of appointments for new patients.

Beyond the raw numbers, identifying standout primary care practices within 02670 is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, including actively promoting lung cancer screening for eligible patients. Key indicators of a strong practice include: a well-established patient education program, a documented screening protocol, and a collaborative relationship with pulmonologists and oncologists. Assessing the practice's patient satisfaction scores, as well as their use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, is also important. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and are accredited by recognized healthcare organizations typically demonstrate a higher standard of care.

The adoption of telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, particularly in geographically dispersed areas like Cape Cod. Telemedicine can enhance access to primary care services, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and specialist consultations. This is particularly relevant for lung cancer patients who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent monitoring. Evaluating the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in West Dennis involves assessing their use of secure video conferencing platforms, their ability to provide remote monitoring of vital signs, and their integration of telehealth services into their overall care delivery model. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience, reduce healthcare costs, and improve outcomes.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges throughout their journey. Primary care practices should ideally have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Assessing the availability of these resources in West Dennis involves investigating the presence of mental health providers within the community, the acceptance of insurance coverage, and the availability of support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to cancer patients. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients contribute to a more holistic and supportive care environment.

Analyzing the landscape of specialists is also important, though not the primary focus of this analysis. The presence of pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) and oncologists (cancer specialists) within a reasonable distance from West Dennis is critical. Easy access to these specialists is essential for timely diagnosis, staging, and treatment of lung cancer. Evaluating the availability of these specialists involves assessing their proximity to the area, their acceptance of insurance plans, and their reputation within the medical community. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance is also a significant advantage, as these centers often provide a multidisciplinary approach to care, including access to advanced treatments and clinical trials.

The availability of smoking cessation programs is another crucial element. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and cessation is a key factor in improving patient outcomes. Primary care practices should ideally offer or refer patients to evidence-based smoking cessation programs, including counseling and medication assistance. Evaluating the availability of these programs in West Dennis involves assessing the presence of certified tobacco treatment specialists, the availability of nicotine replacement therapy, and the practice's commitment to helping patients quit smoking.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in West Dennis, MA (02670), presents a mixed bag. While the specifics of physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of certain resources require more in-depth research, the importance of accessible primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and specialist availability cannot be overstated. Practices that prioritize early detection, patient education, and comprehensive care are more likely to provide the best possible outcomes for patients facing the challenges of lung cancer.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in West Dennis, including the geographic distribution of physicians, specialists, and resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful visual tool for analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to identify areas with high levels of accessibility and potential gaps in care.