02808, Bradford, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02808, Bradford, Rhode Island is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.93 percent of the residents in 02808 has some form of health insurance. 28.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 02808 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 594 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02808. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 218 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 163 health care providers accessible to residents in 02808, Bradford, Rhode Island.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Bradford, RI (ZIP Code 02808)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Bradford, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02808) through the lens of lung cancer care requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify potential standout practices, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive lung cancer care.

Bradford, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The relatively low population density might impact the availability of specialized medical services, including those directly involved in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the focus will be on primary care as the gateway to early detection and referral, as well as on the broader support systems that impact a patient's overall well-being.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The foundation of effective lung cancer care begins with accessible primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, such as low-dose CT scans for high-risk individuals, is critical. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Bradford is a key indicator of the community's ability to manage this initial stage of care. Data on physician-to-patient ratios is essential for understanding the workload of existing PCPs. A high ratio, indicating a larger number of patients per physician, could potentially limit the time PCPs can dedicate to preventative care, patient education, and thorough evaluations.

Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 02808 is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide estimates. It's crucial to distinguish between general practitioners, internal medicine specialists, and family medicine doctors, as they all play different roles in primary care. A comprehensive assessment should also account for the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can significantly contribute to primary care delivery.

**Identifying Standout Practices**

While a comprehensive list of practices in Bradford is not available, identifying standout practices involves looking for specific characteristics. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including robust screening programs for lung cancer, are highly desirable. These practices should actively encourage smoking cessation programs, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer.

Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education and communication are essential. This includes providing clear and concise information about lung cancer risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. Practices that have established relationships with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists are also critical. These collaborations ensure seamless referrals and coordinated care for patients diagnosed with lung cancer. The ability to navigate the complex healthcare system is a significant benefit.

**Telemedicine Adoption**

Telemedicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare access, particularly in areas with limited resources. Its adoption in Bradford is a crucial aspect of the Lung Cancer Score analysis. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and support follow-up care for patients undergoing treatment.

Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially expand their reach and provide care to patients who might otherwise face barriers to accessing traditional in-person appointments. This is especially relevant for follow-up appointments and consultations with specialists located outside of Bradford.

**Mental Health Resources**

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services.

The Lung Cancer Score analysis should investigate the presence of mental health professionals within Bradford or the surrounding areas. It should also consider the availability of resources specifically tailored to cancer patients, such as support groups facilitated by oncology social workers or licensed therapists. Collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers is essential to ensure that patients receive integrated and coordinated care. Addressing the psychological and emotional needs of patients is crucial for improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the "Lung Cancer Score" for Bradford, RI, requires a detailed investigation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals at risk for or diagnosed with lung cancer. The goal is to provide a holistic view of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and identifying areas for improvement.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bradford, including the locations of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the community.