02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 02702 has some form of health insurance. 30.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.03 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 02702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,683 health care providers accessible to residents in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts.

The following analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability within the Assonet, Massachusetts, area, specifically focusing on the ZIP code 02702. This evaluation considers factors relevant to patient outcomes, including physician accessibility, the integration of modern technologies, and the availability of supportive services like mental health care.

Assonet, a small village within the town of Freetown, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The area’s relative isolation and demographic profile, with a significant older population, necessitate a careful examination of healthcare resources. Lung cancer, a serious disease, demands timely diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. The availability and quality of primary care play a crucial role in early detection and patient management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and oncologists, relative to the population of 02702 is essential. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer outcomes for patients at risk of or diagnosed with lung cancer. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with population estimates from the US Census Bureau, can provide a preliminary assessment of these ratios. The analysis needs to go beyond simple numbers, considering factors like physician specialization, accepting new patients, and office hours.

Standout practices within the area may demonstrate superior care delivery models. These practices might exhibit a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, shared decision-making, and coordinated care. They may also have a strong track record of early detection of lung cancer, using advanced screening techniques and adhering to established guidelines. Identifying these standout practices involves examining patient reviews, analyzing performance metrics (where available), and assessing the practice's commitment to continuing medical education and quality improvement initiatives. Information regarding the availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as low-dose CT scans, is also crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within 02702 involves investigating which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially provide more convenient and accessible care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. However, the availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial factor influencing the effectiveness of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's emotional well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is essential. Assessing the mental health resources in 02702 involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating their experience with cancer patients, and examining the availability of support groups and other psychosocial services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices and cancer treatment centers is particularly beneficial.

Primary care availability in Assonet is a crucial factor. The primary care physician often serves as the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms of lung cancer. The availability of PCPs who are accepting new patients, have reasonable wait times, and are knowledgeable about lung cancer screening and diagnosis is vital. The analysis needs to consider the number of PCPs in the area, their specialties, their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers, and their commitment to preventive care. The ease of access to primary care directly impacts the ability to detect lung cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

The assessment of lung cancer care and primary care availability in 02702 also needs to consider the availability of resources beyond the immediate area. Patients may need to travel to larger cities, such as Fall River or New Bedford, for specialized care, such as radiation therapy or surgery. The analysis should consider the proximity of these facilities, the transportation options available, and the potential impact of travel time on patient outcomes. The presence of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist patients with navigating the healthcare system, is also important.

Evaluating the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability is a complex undertaking. This analysis provides a framework for assessing key factors that impact patient outcomes. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources, a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02702 can be developed. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better healthcare access and quality for the residents of Assonet.

The information gathered can be visualized and analyzed using advanced mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of healthcare access and disparities within the area. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and understand the healthcare landscape of 02702 and beyond.