02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 02879 has some form of health insurance. 38.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 02879 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,269 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02879. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,108 health care providers accessible to residents in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Wakefield, RI (ZIP Code 02879)

This analysis focuses on evaluating the quality and accessibility of lung cancer-related care within Wakefield, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02879), with a specific emphasis on primary care availability and its influence on early detection and management. The goal is to generate a "Lung Cancer Score" based on various factors, ultimately providing insights for residents and healthcare professionals alike.

The foundation of any effective lung cancer care strategy lies in robust primary care. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, and primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms. Therefore, the availability and quality of primary care services in Wakefield are critical. We must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. A higher physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with readily available appointment slots, generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a scarcity of PCPs or long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the PCPs’ experience and expertise in recognizing and managing potential lung cancer symptoms. Do they have experience in dealing with the disease? Are they up-to-date on the latest screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for individuals at high risk? The degree to which PCPs proactively discuss risk factors, such as smoking history, and offer or refer patients for appropriate screening tests (e.g., low-dose computed tomography, or LDCT) is a significant factor in our scoring.

Another critical element is the presence of specialist support. The availability of pulmonologists, oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologists within a reasonable geographic radius is crucial. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer require a multidisciplinary approach, and timely access to these specialists is essential for optimal care. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral from PCPs, and the wait times for specialist appointments are all factors that influence the overall Lung Cancer Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services, and these services can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telemedicine consultations with PCPs and specialists in Wakefield can reduce travel burdens and allow for more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments. A higher adoption rate of telemedicine services would positively impact the Lung Cancer Score.

Mental health resources are also vital. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or chronic illness is a crucial component of comprehensive care. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric care within the community can significantly improve the patient's quality of life and contribute to better treatment outcomes. A strong network of mental health resources would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score.

Specific practices in Wakefield should be evaluated. For instance, practices that actively participate in lung cancer screening programs, have dedicated care coordinators for cancer patients, and integrate mental health services into their care models would be considered standout practices. Their commitment to proactive screening, patient education, and holistic care would contribute to a higher score. We must assess the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines, their patient satisfaction ratings, and their overall commitment to providing high-quality care.

The analysis must also consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence lung cancer outcomes. This includes assessing the prevalence of smoking within the community, the rates of poverty, and the availability of health insurance. These factors can significantly impact a patient's access to care and their ability to adhere to treatment plans. A community with a higher prevalence of smoking and limited access to resources would likely receive a lower score.

The Lung Cancer Score will be a composite measure, taking into account all of the factors mentioned above. It will be based on a weighted average, with each factor contributing to the overall score based on its relative importance. The scoring system could range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing poor access to care and limited resources, and 10 representing excellent access to care and comprehensive support services.

The final Lung Cancer Score for Wakefield (ZIP Code 02879) will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. It can be used to identify areas for improvement, guide resource allocation, and ultimately improve the quality of lung cancer care in the community. The analysis will also provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, highlighting areas where additional investment or intervention is needed.

The analysis will not only assess the current state of care but also identify potential opportunities for improvement. This includes recommendations for increasing access to screening, expanding telemedicine services, and strengthening mental health support. The goal is to create a more patient-centered and comprehensive approach to lung cancer care in Wakefield.

The analysis will also consider the impact of local hospitals and healthcare systems. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated oncology department, access to advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, and a strong commitment to research and innovation would positively influence the Lung Cancer Score. The hospital's ability to provide comprehensive cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive services, is a critical factor.

The goal is to create a comprehensive and data-driven assessment of lung cancer care in Wakefield, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The analysis will be based on publicly available data, as well as information gathered from healthcare providers and community stakeholders. The final report will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving lung cancer outcomes in Wakefield.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wakefield, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you explore and analyze the data in a user-friendly and insightful way.