02857, North Scituate, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02857, North Scituate, Rhode Island is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.16 percent of the residents in 02857 has some form of health insurance. 34.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.68 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 02857 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02857. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,964 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 02857, North Scituate, Rhode Island.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: North Scituate, RI (ZIP Code 02857)**

This analysis provides an assessment of the healthcare landscape in North Scituate, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02857), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer detection, treatment, and patient support. The evaluation considers the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem in relation to lung cancer care.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care lies in early detection and timely intervention. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is therefore paramount. In North Scituate, the overall availability of PCPs is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to larger medical centers in Providence and surrounding towns, the immediate availability of PCPs within the 02857 ZIP code itself is somewhat limited. This necessitates a degree of travel for residents seeking routine check-ups and screenings, which can pose a barrier to early detection, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access to care and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. In North Scituate, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is slightly below the state average. This suggests that while access isn't dire, it could be improved. This is especially relevant in the context of lung cancer, where prompt access to screening and diagnostic services is vital. Delays in obtaining appointments or receiving test results can negatively impact patient outcomes.

Beyond the general availability of PCPs, the presence of specialized practices is crucial. While the 02857 ZIP code itself might not host a dedicated pulmonology clinic, the area benefits from its proximity to larger medical facilities in Providence and surrounding areas. These facilities typically offer specialized services, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists. The ease of access to these specialists, however, is a key consideration. Travel time, appointment availability, and insurance coverage all influence the patient experience. The integration and coordination of care between PCPs in North Scituate and specialists in nearby cities is a critical factor in ensuring seamless patient care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to care, reduced travel time, and improved convenience. In North Scituate, the adoption of telemedicine by local practices is moderate. Many PCPs offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups and medication management. However, the availability of telemedicine for specialized services, such as pulmonology or oncology, is more limited. Expanding the availability of telemedicine, particularly for specialist consultations and follow-up appointments, could significantly improve access to care for lung cancer patients.

The emotional and psychological toll of a lung cancer diagnosis is substantial. Access to mental health resources is therefore an essential component of comprehensive patient care. The availability of mental health services in North Scituate is good, but the integration of these services within the primary care setting could be improved. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within primary care practices can facilitate early identification of mental health needs and streamline access to support. This is particularly important for lung cancer patients, who may experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges.

Standout practices in the area demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. These practices often prioritize patient education, proactive screening, and coordinated care. They may also offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and online patient portals to enhance accessibility. Some practices have also adopted innovative approaches, such as patient navigators, who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system and accessing resources. While specific practice names cannot be mentioned, the presence of such practices in the broader region surrounding North Scituate indicates a commitment to high-quality care.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for North Scituate, RI (ZIP Code 02857) is moderate. While the area benefits from its proximity to larger medical centers and specialized services, the limited availability of PCPs within the ZIP code itself, coupled with the need for improved physician-to-patient ratios, presents challenges. The moderate adoption of telemedicine and the need for better integration of mental health services also contribute to this score. The presence of standout practices in the surrounding area offers a positive indicator of the potential for high-quality care.

Improving the Lung Cancer Score for North Scituate requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the number of PCPs in the area, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and strengthening the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Furthermore, enhancing the coordination of care between PCPs and specialists in surrounding areas is crucial. Patient education and awareness campaigns can also play a vital role in promoting early detection and timely intervention.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in North Scituate, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a comprehensive and interactive view of the local healthcare ecosystem, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.