02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 02673 has some form of health insurance. 52.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.81 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 02673 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,898 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02673. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 595 health care providers accessible to residents in 02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: West Yarmouth, MA (ZIP Code 02673)

This analysis evaluates the quality of lung cancer care and primary care accessibility within West Yarmouth, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02673). The assessment considers various factors, including physician availability, the integration of technology, and the availability of supportive resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care to patients. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). In West Yarmouth, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the region, like many coastal communities, faces potential challenges related to seasonal population shifts, which can strain healthcare resources. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially, a less proactive approach to preventative care, including lung cancer screening. This underscores the importance of robust primary care infrastructure.

Standout practices in West Yarmouth are those that demonstrate a commitment to early detection and comprehensive patient management. This includes practices that actively promote lung cancer screening, particularly for individuals with a history of smoking or other risk factors. These practices will have established protocols for ordering low-dose CT scans, interpreting results accurately, and referring patients promptly to specialists if necessary. Furthermore, they will demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing clear information about the risks of smoking, the benefits of screening, and the importance of adhering to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or who live in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide continuous care and monitor patients' progress effectively. The availability of telehealth services can also extend the reach of specialists, allowing patients in West Yarmouth to connect with pulmonologists and oncologists remotely.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can bring about significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health support into their care models are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This includes providing access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, either within the practice itself or through referrals to external resources. The availability of these services can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The analysis also considers the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can streamline communication, improve care coordination, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. This includes the ability to share patient information securely with specialists, track patient progress over time, and identify potential risks early on. EHRs also enable practices to participate in quality improvement initiatives, which can lead to better patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis assesses the availability of specialized services. While West Yarmouth may not have its own dedicated cancer center, access to nearby facilities with pulmonologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential. This includes the ease of referral to these specialists and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and cancer specialists. The proximity of these specialists and the efficiency of the referral process are critical factors in determining the quality of care.

The commitment to patient education is also a crucial aspect. Practices that provide patients with clear, concise, and understandable information about lung cancer, its treatment options, and the importance of lifestyle modifications are more likely to empower patients to take an active role in their care. This includes providing educational materials, hosting patient support groups, and offering access to reliable online resources.

The overall "Lung Cancer Score" for West Yarmouth, MA, is a composite of these factors. It's not a single, definitive number, but rather a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem. The score considers the availability of PCPs, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the access to specialized services. The score will also consider the practice’s commitment to patient education and the efficiency of the referral process.

The quality of lung cancer care in West Yarmouth is a dynamic situation. Healthcare landscapes constantly evolve. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of resources can all impact the quality of care. Regular monitoring and assessment are essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

The West Yarmouth healthcare landscape is a complex environment. The factors discussed above will influence the overall quality of care. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the integration of EHRs all play a vital role. The commitment to patient education and the availability of specialized services are also important considerations.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Yarmouth, including the locations of medical practices, the proximity of specialists, and the availability of various resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for visualizing and understanding the healthcare ecosystem in this area.