02726, Somerset, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02726, Somerset, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.91 percent of the residents in 02726 has some form of health insurance. 36.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.02 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 02726 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,253 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02726. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,841 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,100 health care providers accessible to residents in 02726, Somerset, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score: Somerset, MA (ZIP Code 02726)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Somerset, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02726), requires a multi-faceted approach, especially when considering a disease as serious as lung cancer. A "Lung Cancer Score" isn't a formal, standardized metric, but rather a synthesized assessment based on available data points. This analysis focuses on primary care access, physician availability, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial factors in early detection, treatment, and patient well-being for individuals facing lung cancer.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care pathway lies in robust primary care. Early detection through screening, such as low-dose CT scans, is paramount. This, in turn, depends on patients having regular access to primary care physicians (PCPs) who can order these screenings and guide patients through the process. Assessing primary care availability in Somerset involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the 02726 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) suggests potentially reduced access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality of primary care practices is critical. Identifying "standout practices" requires research into patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance – NCQA), and participation in quality improvement programs. Practices demonstrating a commitment to preventative care, including smoking cessation programs and proactive screening protocols, would score favorably. Furthermore, practices that readily accept new patients and offer convenient appointment scheduling are vital for ensuring timely access to care.

Telemedicine's role in lung cancer care is evolving rapidly. Its capacity to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists is particularly valuable. The "Lung Cancer Score" would consider the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Somerset. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities for patients undergoing treatment, and the use of telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments. Practices embracing telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and potentially improved access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and oncologists.

The emotional and psychological impact of a lung cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore an essential component of comprehensive care. The "Lung Cancer Score" evaluates the availability of mental health services within Somerset and the degree to which primary care practices integrate these services into their patient care. This includes identifying the presence of on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, as well as practices' ability to screen patients for depression and anxiety and make appropriate referrals. Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the mental health needs of their patients would be considered to offer superior care.

Specific examples of practices and resources within Somerset are difficult to provide without violating privacy. However, the methodology for assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" would involve a detailed investigation. This would include searching online directories for primary care physicians within the 02726 ZIP code, examining patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, and researching practice websites for information on services offered, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health integration. Local hospitals and community health centers would also be assessed for their lung cancer screening programs, treatment options, and supportive care services.

The analysis would also consider the presence of support groups and resources for lung cancer patients and their families. This includes organizations like the American Lung Association and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, which offer educational materials, support groups, and advocacy services. The proximity of these resources and their accessibility to residents of Somerset would be factored into the overall score.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates, based on new data and changes in practice offerings, are essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This ongoing process allows for continuous improvement in healthcare accessibility and quality.

Furthermore, the assessment would consider the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and oncologists, in the surrounding areas. The ease of access to these specialists, including travel time and appointment availability, is critical for patients requiring advanced care. The presence of comprehensive cancer centers and their proximity to Somerset would also be a significant factor.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. Publicly available data may not always be complete or up-to-date. Patient reviews can be subjective. The "Lung Cancer Score" is, therefore, an estimate based on the best available information. However, the comprehensive nature of the assessment, considering multiple factors, provides a valuable overview of healthcare accessibility and quality within Somerset, MA.

In conclusion, assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Somerset (02726) involves a holistic evaluation of primary care access, physician availability, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness within the healthcare system, ultimately promoting better patient outcomes. The presence of accessible primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services are all critical factors.

For a visual representation of healthcare access, physician locations, and other relevant data points in Somerset, MA, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Use this platform to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.