02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 02748 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.00 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 02748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,010 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,202 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,635 health care providers accessible to residents in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

**Lung Cancer Score: South Dartmouth, MA (ZIP Code 02748) - A Primary Care & Physician Landscape Analysis**

Analyzing the landscape of primary care and associated resources within South Dartmouth, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02748), is critical for understanding the accessibility and quality of care available to residents, particularly concerning a serious disease like lung cancer. This analysis provides a ‘Lung Cancer Score’ assessment, considering factors that directly and indirectly impact early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on available data and insights.

The foundation of effective lung cancer management hinges on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, symptom management, and referrals to specialists are all primarily managed by primary care physicians (PCPs). The availability of PCPs, measured through physician-to-patient ratios, is a key indicator. In South Dartmouth, the ratio needs to be assessed. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can offer an estimate. A favorable ratio, indicating a higher number of PCPs per capita, suggests better access to care. However, this ratio alone is insufficient. The distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are the physicians concentrated in a specific area, potentially leaving some residents with limited access?

Standout practices within South Dartmouth are those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive lung cancer screening and patient education. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines for screening, especially for individuals at high risk (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history). They may also have dedicated patient navigators or care coordinators who help patients navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Assessing the prevalence of these practices requires reviewing online physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews. Information on the availability of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, the primary screening tool for lung cancer, and the ease of scheduling these scans is also crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is another important aspect of the ‘Lung Cancer Score’. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health support, can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are likely to receive a higher score. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining practice websites, online appointment scheduling systems, and patient reviews. The availability of telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked but are integral to the overall well-being of lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Practices that offer or have readily available access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, are better equipped to support their patients. The presence of on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with local mental health providers, and referrals to support groups are all positive indicators. Assessing the availability of mental health resources requires reviewing practice websites, patient reviews, and information from local healthcare directories.

The presence of specialized lung cancer care within or near South Dartmouth is another critical factor. While PCPs play a vital role in initial assessment and referral, access to oncologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The proximity of these specialists, the availability of advanced treatment options (such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy), and the presence of clinical trials are all important considerations. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ considers the ease of access to these specialists, considering the distance, wait times for appointments, and the overall quality of care provided.

Furthermore, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ considers the availability of resources that support patient education and empowerment. Practices that provide patients with information about lung cancer, its risk factors, screening guidelines, and treatment options are more likely to foster informed decision-making and active patient participation in their care. This includes providing educational materials, hosting patient seminars, and offering access to online resources. The score considers the presence of these resources, assessing the quality and accessibility of the information provided.

The overall quality of the healthcare infrastructure in South Dartmouth also influences the ‘Lung Cancer Score’. The availability of well-equipped hospitals, diagnostic centers, and rehabilitation facilities is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The presence of a strong healthcare network, with seamless communication and coordination among different providers, is another positive indicator. Assessing the quality of the healthcare infrastructure involves reviewing hospital ratings, accreditation information, and patient satisfaction surveys.

The socioeconomic factors of the community are also considered. Areas with higher rates of poverty, limited access to transportation, and lower levels of education may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The ‘Lung Cancer Score’ considers these factors, recognizing that they can significantly impact patient outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies.

In conclusion, the ‘Lung Cancer Score’ for South Dartmouth, MA (ZIP code 02748) is based on a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialized care, patient education initiatives, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors. The score is not a static value but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. The score is a qualitative assessment, not a numerical one. The goal is to provide a holistic view of the resources available to lung cancer patients and to identify areas for improvement.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in South Dartmouth and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician distribution, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed assessment of the healthcare resources available to residents.