02914, East Providence, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02914, East Providence, Rhode Island is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.20 percent of the residents in 02914 has some form of health insurance. 41.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.29 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 02914 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,083 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02914. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,879 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,155 health care providers accessible to residents in 02914, East Providence, Rhode Island.

This analysis provides a Lung Cancer Score assessment for primary care physicians practicing within the 02914 ZIP code, encompassing East Providence, Rhode Island. The score considers factors relevant to lung cancer detection and management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to crucial supportive services. It's important to remember that this is an analytical overview, and patients should always consult with their physicians for personalized medical advice.

The foundation of a strong lung cancer care system rests on readily available primary care. In East Providence, the primary care physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data suggests a moderate ratio, meaning that access to a primary care physician is generally attainable, but appointment wait times and patient load can influence the quality of care. Higher ratios, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

The availability of primary care directly impacts the likelihood of early lung cancer detection. Routine screenings, particularly for high-risk individuals (smokers, former smokers, and those with a family history), are essential. Primary care physicians are the gatekeepers to these screenings, ordering low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans and guiding patients through the process. A robust primary care infrastructure ensures that these screenings are readily accessible.

Several practices in the 02914 ZIP code stand out. Practices that have embraced comprehensive care models, integrating specialists and offering coordinated services, are particularly noteworthy. These practices often feature a multidisciplinary approach, where primary care physicians collaborate with pulmonologists, oncologists, and other specialists. This collaborative environment fosters better communication and ensures patients receive holistic care. Practices that have invested in advanced diagnostic equipment, such as in-house imaging capabilities, also score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide ongoing support and facilitate timely interventions. Telemedicine also allows for easier follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to educational resources.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of lung cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric services can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The Lung Cancer Score considers the presence of these mental health resources. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, provide counseling, and offer referrals to mental health specialists receive higher scores. The availability of these resources can significantly impact a patient's ability to cope with their diagnosis and treatment.

The quality of care also hinges on the physician's experience and training. Physicians with specialized training in pulmonology or oncology, or those who have completed fellowships in these areas, are better equipped to manage complex cases. The Lung Cancer Score considers the qualifications of the physicians in the practice. Practices with a higher percentage of board-certified physicians and those with a track record of successful patient outcomes score higher.

Furthermore, the Lung Cancer Score evaluates the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that provide patients with educational materials about lung cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options are considered more patient-centered. These materials can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and actively participate in their care.

The availability of support services is also a key factor. Practices that offer access to smoking cessation programs, nutritional counseling, and other supportive services receive higher scores. These services can help patients manage their symptoms, improve their overall health, and cope with the challenges of cancer treatment.

The integration of technology also plays a role. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals are better equipped to manage patient data, coordinate care, and communicate with patients. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently, leading to better-informed decisions. Patient portals provide patients with access to their medical records, appointment scheduling, and communication with their physicians.

The Lung Cancer Score, therefore, is a composite measure of several factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, physician qualifications, patient education, support services, and technology integration. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the quality of lung cancer care available in the 02914 ZIP code.

The overall Lung Cancer Score for the 02914 ZIP code is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the primary care physician-to-patient ratio is moderate, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources contributes to a positive outlook. However, continuous improvement is essential. Efforts to increase physician availability, expand telemedicine services, and enhance mental health support will further improve the quality of lung cancer care in East Providence.

For a deeper understanding of the landscape of healthcare providers in your area, and to visualize the distribution of resources and identify areas of need, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome’s mapping tools provide detailed insights into healthcare access, physician locations, and other relevant data points, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.