02777, Swansea, Massachusetts Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 02777 has some form of health insurance. 32.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.82 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 02777 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,166 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02777. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,525 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,214 health care providers accessible to residents in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts.

The following analysis assesses the quality of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Swansea, Massachusetts, specifically focusing on the doctors practicing within ZIP code 02777. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive and effective healthcare, particularly for a disease as serious as lung cancer.

Swansea, like many communities, faces the challenge of ensuring adequate access to quality healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 02777 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine. This data should be analyzed, cross-referenced, and updated regularly to provide an accurate snapshot of the current situation. This analysis should differentiate between primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists involved in lung cancer treatment.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often demonstrate superior patient outcomes, utilize innovative treatment approaches, and provide a patient-centered experience. Evaluating practices requires considering factors like patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the Joint Commission), and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies. Practices actively involved in clinical trials, offering cutting-edge therapies, and demonstrating a commitment to early detection through robust screening programs should be highlighted. Additionally, the integration of multidisciplinary teams, including pulmonologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and nurses specializing in lung cancer care, is a critical factor.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas, and reduced travel burdens. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices in 02777 involves examining whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them seamlessly into their workflows are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. This includes considering the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, the availability of technical support for patients, and the security measures in place to protect patient privacy.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of lung cancer care, but they are critical. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health support involves assessing whether practices offer on-site counseling services, referrals to mental health professionals, and access to support groups. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate it into their overall care plans are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This includes providing resources for managing stress, coping with the emotional impact of the disease, and addressing any underlying mental health conditions.

Primary care availability in Swansea is a key determinant of early detection and preventative care. A strong primary care network is crucial for promoting regular check-ups, screening for lung cancer risk factors, and referring patients to specialists when necessary. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing in 02777, the average wait times for appointments, and the accessibility of after-hours care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive health screenings, and have established referral pathways to specialists are vital for ensuring optimal health outcomes. This includes evaluating the availability of smoking cessation programs, which are essential for reducing the risk of lung cancer.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact healthcare access in Swansea. Factors like insurance coverage, transportation access, and language barriers can significantly affect a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and actively work to overcome them are demonstrating a commitment to health equity. This includes accepting a wide range of insurance plans, providing transportation assistance, and offering language services.

The overall 'Lung Cancer Score' analysis for doctors in ZIP code 02777 should be a dynamic assessment, regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. It should be based on objective data, expert opinions, and patient feedback. The analysis should not only identify strengths and weaknesses but also provide actionable recommendations for improving the quality of care. This could include suggestions for practices to adopt telemedicine, enhance mental health support, or improve patient communication. The goal is to empower patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to encourage healthcare providers to continuously strive for excellence.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the specific needs of the Swansea community. This includes understanding the prevalence of lung cancer risk factors, such as smoking rates, and tailoring care plans accordingly. It also involves collaborating with community organizations to raise awareness about lung cancer prevention and early detection. The analysis should be transparent and accessible to the public, allowing residents of Swansea to easily understand the quality of care available in their community.

This comprehensive evaluation of lung cancer care and primary care availability in Swansea, MA, provides a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, this analysis can contribute to better health outcomes and a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Swansea, including physician locations, practice demographics, and access to care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can transform complex healthcare data into interactive, easy-to-understand visualizations, providing valuable insights for patients, providers, and policymakers.