02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 02760 has some form of health insurance. 31.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.58 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 02760 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,824 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02760. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts.

The analysis of lung cancer care within ZIP code 02760, encompassing North Attleboro, Massachusetts, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must examine the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), as they represent the crucial first line of defense in early detection and referral. Furthermore, we'll consider the broader healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all of which contribute to a patient's overall experience and the effectiveness of their lung cancer care. This analysis will inform a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, especially for high-risk individuals (smokers, those with a family history), significantly improves survival rates. The availability of PCPs, therefore, is paramount. In North Attleboro (02760), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Researching the current ratio, comparing it to state and national averages, provides a baseline understanding of access challenges. Data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau will be invaluable in this assessment.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. We need to assess the practices within 02760, looking for those that actively promote lung cancer screening guidelines, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient risk factors, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education. Practices that proactively reach out to high-risk patients for screening are considered standout performers. These practices often exhibit a culture of preventative care, a crucial element in the fight against lung cancer. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient testimonials, examining practice websites for information on screening programs, and potentially consulting with local healthcare advocacy groups.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare access, especially in areas with potential shortages of specialists. Its role in lung cancer care is multifaceted. Telemedicine can facilitate consultations with pulmonologists and oncologists, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. It can also be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. The adoption rate of telemedicine by practices in 02760 is a crucial consideration. Are local practices offering virtual appointments? Are they equipped with the necessary technology to provide high-quality telehealth services? This information can be gathered by surveying local practices and analyzing their online presence.

The emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Mental health support is therefore an integral component of comprehensive care. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the community is crucial. Access to these resources, whether through the primary care practice, local hospitals, or community mental health centers, directly impacts the patient's ability to cope with the disease. The "Lung Cancer Score" must consider the presence of these resources, their accessibility, and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Information on mental health resources can be obtained from local hospitals, community health centers, and mental health advocacy groups.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial factor. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can lead to reduced access to care. This can manifest as longer wait times for appointments, making it difficult to schedule timely screenings or specialist consultations. The "Lung Cancer Score" must reflect this reality, penalizing areas with significant physician shortages. Conversely, areas with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio will receive a higher score, reflecting improved access to care.

The existence of standout practices is another key element. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach to lung cancer screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and actively reaching out to high-risk patients. They may also offer patient navigation services, helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of patient testimonials, practice websites, and potentially, direct contact with the practices themselves. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reward practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in lung cancer care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and receive follow-up care remotely. This is particularly important for patients in rural or underserved areas. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of telemedicine services, rewarding practices that offer virtual consultations and other telehealth options.

Mental health resources are crucial for patients facing a lung cancer diagnosis. The emotional and psychological impact of the disease can be profound. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. Areas with robust mental health resources will receive a higher score, reflecting the importance of comprehensive patient care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 02760 will be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these various factors. It will provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources, we can create a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in North Attleboro. This data-driven approach will help patients make informed decisions about their care and empower healthcare providers to improve their services.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 02760 and beyond, and to explore the spatial relationships between these critical factors, we invite you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas of need. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your health.