02894, Wood River Junction, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02894, Wood River Junction, Rhode Island is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.68 percent of the residents in 02894 has some form of health insurance. 14.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.73 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 02894 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 58 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02894. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 139 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 905 health care providers accessible to residents in 02894, Wood River Junction, Rhode Island.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02894 & Primary Care in Wood River Junction**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02894, encompassing Wood River Junction, requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing factors relevant to lung cancer care. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized lung cancer resources, telemedicine adoption, mental health support integration, and identify any standout practices. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive “Lung Cancer Score” assessment.

Wood River Junction, Rhode Island, is a relatively small community. This impacts the overall availability of healthcare services. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health, combined with publicly available information on physician practices within the ZIP code, provides the foundation for this assessment. The ideal is a ratio that ensures timely access to care.

The core of lung cancer care begins with primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms. Their ability to recognize potential lung cancer indicators, order appropriate diagnostic tests, and refer patients to specialists is paramount. Assessing the availability of PCPs within 02894 involves identifying the number of practicing PCPs, their patient load capacity, and the types of insurance they accept. Practices that accept a broad range of insurance plans increase accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. This includes the use of evidence-based guidelines for screening, such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations for lung cancer screening in high-risk individuals (current or former smokers). Practices that actively promote and implement these guidelines demonstrate a commitment to preventative care.

Specialized lung cancer resources are crucial. While 02894 may not have dedicated oncology centers, the proximity to such facilities is a key consideration. The analysis will assess the travel time to nearby hospitals and cancer centers offering comprehensive lung cancer services, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, where specialists collaborate on patient care, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, has become increasingly important, especially in rural or underserved areas. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel time for patients, and facilitate follow-up care. The analysis will investigate the extent to which practices in 02894 offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the technologies used.

Mental health support is often overlooked but is vital for lung cancer patients. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices or through referrals is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health support, and patient reviews. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and prioritize accessibility are considered exemplary.

The “Lung Cancer Score” for doctors in 02894 is a composite measure. It incorporates all the factors discussed above. A higher score indicates better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of early diagnosis and effective treatment. The score is not a single number but a multi-faceted assessment.

The primary care landscape in Wood River Junction is likely limited by its size. The analysis will reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure. This assessment will also highlight the need for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding access to specialized services, and promoting the adoption of telemedicine. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of lung cancer care.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. These factors include income levels, insurance coverage rates, and transportation availability. Addressing these disparities is essential to ensure equitable access to care for all residents of 02894.

The analysis will also assess the potential for collaboration between healthcare providers in the area. This includes partnerships between primary care practices, specialists, and hospitals. Collaborative care models can improve coordination of care, reduce fragmentation, and enhance patient outcomes.

The final “Lung Cancer Score” will be a valuable tool for residents of 02894. It will provide information to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare. It will also provide insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to improve the quality and accessibility of lung cancer care.

The analysis will conclude with a summary of the findings. It will identify the key strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 02894. It will also provide recommendations for improvement. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the early detection, effective treatment, and improved outcomes for lung cancer patients in Wood River Junction.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 02894, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and cancer centers, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the data, allowing users to explore the healthcare resources in the area and make informed decisions about their care.