02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.09 percent of the residents in 02703 has some form of health insurance. 37.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.69 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 02703 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02703. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,697 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,195 health care providers accessible to residents in 02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02703 and Primary Care Availability in Attleboro**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 02703 (Attleboro, Massachusetts) with a specific focus on factors relevant to lung cancer care. The assessment considers primary care accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial elements in a patient's journey from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

Attleboro, a suburban community in Bristol County, Massachusetts, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The town's demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, influence the demand for and the availability of medical services. Evaluating the healthcare ecosystem requires a comprehensive approach, moving beyond simple metrics to incorporate qualitative aspects of care.

**Primary Care Availability: A Cornerstone of Lung Cancer Care**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of lung cancer. Early detection is critical for successful treatment outcomes, and PCPs play a vital role in identifying potential risks, ordering screening tests (such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals), and making timely referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs in Attleboro is therefore a fundamental aspect of lung cancer care.

Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing within the 02703 ZIP Code and the surrounding areas, along with the patient-to-physician ratio. A high ratio can indicate limited access, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventive care. It is also essential to consider the types of primary care practices available, including family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric medicine, to ensure a diverse range of expertise.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Attleboro is another important factor. Accessibility is affected by proximity to patients, particularly for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges. Examining the location of practices relative to residential areas can reveal potential disparities in access to care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Measure of Access**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of healthcare access. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher number of physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, reduced wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a high ratio can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio in Attleboro requires data on the total number of physicians, including PCPs, pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer care. This data should be compared to the population of the ZIP Code to calculate the ratio. The ratio should then be benchmarked against regional and national averages to assess Attleboro's performance.

**Standout Practices: Centers of Excellence**

Identifying standout practices in Attleboro is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative treatment approaches, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. Evaluating practices involves assessing several factors, including:

* **Accreditation and Certifications:** Accreditation from organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) signifies adherence to rigorous quality standards.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall quality of care.
* **Specialized Expertise:** Practices with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists with expertise in lung cancer care are particularly valuable.
* **Advanced Technology:** The adoption of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques and targeted therapies, can improve outcomes.
* **Research and Innovation:** Practices involved in clinical trials and research contribute to advancing lung cancer treatment.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine in Attleboro can improve access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring, and provide convenient follow-up care.

Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring programs, and online patient portals. Practices that offer telemedicine services can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive lung cancer care.

Evaluating mental health resources involves assessing the availability of:

* **Mental health professionals:** Psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in oncology.
* **Support groups:** Peer support groups provide patients with emotional support and a sense of community.
* **Counseling services:** Individual and family counseling can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of lung cancer.
* **Integration with oncology care:** Seamless integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in Attleboro, MA (ZIP Code 02703) presents a multifaceted picture regarding lung cancer care. The availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed analysis of each of these factors, considering both quantitative and qualitative aspects. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

**Call to Action**

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, primary care availability, and potential areas of need within Attleboro and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful visualization tool to understand the complexities of healthcare access in your community.