02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 02764 has some form of health insurance. 36.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.25 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 02764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 935 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02764. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: North Dighton, MA (ZIP Code 02764)

Analyzing the landscape of lung cancer care within North Dighton, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02764), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components in the fight against this devastating disease. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests on robust primary care. In North Dighton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical first step. The "Lung Cancer Score" will be significantly influenced by the density of PCPs per capita. A higher ratio, indicating more readily accessible primary care, will positively impact the score. This accessibility is paramount for early detection, which is the cornerstone of successful lung cancer treatment. Early screening programs, facilitated by accessible PCPs, can identify the disease at its most treatable stages.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a core metric. Assessing the number of PCPs, pulmonologists, and oncologists practicing within the 02764 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas is essential. A low ratio of specialists to patients can lead to delayed diagnoses, treatment bottlenecks, and ultimately, poorer outcomes. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect the availability of these specialists, with a higher score awarded to areas boasting a more favorable physician-to-patient ratio. This involves examining not only the raw numbers but also the geographical distribution of specialists, ensuring that patients in North Dighton have reasonable access to the care they need.

Identifying standout practices is another key component. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by local medical facilities. Factors to be considered include the use of evidence-based practices, the adoption of advanced diagnostic technologies (such as low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening), and patient satisfaction scores. Practices demonstrating a commitment to these areas will receive higher marks, positively impacting the "Lung Cancer Score." This analysis should look for accreditations, awards, and patient testimonials, which can be used to gauge the reputation and quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its impact on lung cancer care is significant. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists for patients in rural or underserved areas. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for patient education and support. Practices that have fully integrated telemedicine into their workflow will be viewed more favorably.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for patients battling lung cancer. The diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Lung Cancer Score" will consider the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric care. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic patient care, recognizing the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of individuals with lung cancer.

Specific practices within the 02764 ZIP code and surrounding areas will be individually evaluated. For example, the presence of a practice with a dedicated lung cancer screening program, utilizing the latest imaging technology and adhering to national guidelines, will significantly boost its score. The availability of a multidisciplinary team, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses, will also be considered. Furthermore, the practice's commitment to patient education and support, including offering resources on smoking cessation and coping with the side effects of treatment, will be evaluated.

Another critical element is the integration of palliative care. Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients and their families facing the challenges of a life-threatening illness. The "Lung Cancer Score" will assess the availability of palliative care services, including pain management, symptom control, and emotional support. Practices that offer or collaborate with palliative care specialists will receive a higher score, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

The "Lung Cancer Score" will also consider the local healthcare system's ability to coordinate care. This includes the efficiency of referrals, the communication between different specialists, and the use of electronic health records to share information. A well-coordinated system can streamline the patient journey, reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment, and improve overall outcomes.

Finally, the overall community environment plays a role. Factors such as air quality, access to healthy food options, and the prevalence of smoking will be considered. These factors can influence lung cancer risk and the overall health of the community. The "Lung Cancer Score" will reflect these environmental factors, recognizing that a healthy community is essential for effective lung cancer care.

In conclusion, the "Lung Cancer Score" for North Dighton, MA (ZIP Code 02764) is a dynamic assessment that considers multiple factors. It is not a static ranking but a snapshot of the healthcare landscape at a specific point in time. The score will be influenced by the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their care and encouraging healthcare providers to continuously improve their services.

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