02915, Riverside, Rhode Island Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 02915, Riverside, Rhode Island is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.37 percent of the residents in 02915 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.34 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 02915 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,617 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02915. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,334 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 02915, Riverside, Rhode Island.

## Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Riverside, RI (ZIP Code 02915)

This analysis delves into the landscape of lung cancer care within ZIP code 02915, encompassing Riverside, Rhode Island. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial entry point for early detection and referral, and gauge the overall quality of care based on factors like physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This evaluation will provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem's ability to address lung cancer, a disease that disproportionately impacts communities.

The availability of primary care physicians in Riverside is a critical starting point. Access to a PCP significantly influences the likelihood of early diagnosis through routine screenings and symptom assessment. A favorable physician-to-patient ratio suggests a less burdened healthcare system, allowing PCPs more time to focus on individual patient needs, including preventative care and timely referrals for suspected lung cancer cases. Unfortunately, publicly available data on precise physician-to-patient ratios at the ZIP code level is often limited. However, analyzing broader county-level data, combined with information from insurance provider directories and online physician databases, can provide a reasonable estimate. Riverside, being part of Providence County, will likely reflect the county's overall physician distribution. This requires careful scrutiny of publicly available data to ascertain the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 02915 area and the estimated population they serve.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to screening guidelines for individuals at high risk (e.g., current or former smokers). Practices that actively promote and facilitate lung cancer screening, including low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans, are crucial. These practices should have clear protocols for identifying eligible patients, providing education about the benefits and risks of screening, and ensuring timely follow-up for any suspicious findings. Assessing the adoption rate of these practices requires reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly, and potentially analyzing patient satisfaction surveys.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and symptom management, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between PCPs and specialists, streamlining the referral process and ensuring seamless care coordination. The availability of telemedicine services within Riverside's primary care practices is a significant indicator of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. This assessment requires examining practice websites and inquiring about telehealth capabilities.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a crucial aspect of comprehensive lung cancer care. A lung cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either in-house or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing support groups, individual therapy, and psychiatric services when needed. Determining the availability of these resources requires examining practice websites and contacting the practices to inquire about their mental health support programs.

Identifying standout practices within Riverside requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves analyzing patient reviews, examining practice websites for information on services offered, and potentially conducting interviews with local healthcare professionals. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practices, and offer comprehensive services, including telemedicine and mental health support, should be considered top performers. These practices often prioritize patient education, proactive screening, and coordinated care.

Analyzing the overall healthcare landscape in Riverside also involves considering the availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, oncologists, and thoracic surgeons. The proximity of these specialists is crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with advanced diagnostic capabilities, such as LDCT scanners and bronchoscopy suites, is also essential. Assessing the availability of these resources requires examining hospital websites, contacting specialist practices, and reviewing publicly available data on healthcare infrastructure.

The quality of care also hinges on the patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system. This includes understanding their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. Practices that provide clear and concise information, offer patient education materials, and encourage patient participation in decision-making are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. This assessment requires examining practice websites for educational resources and evaluating patient communication practices.

Finally, it's crucial to remember that this analysis provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape. The availability and quality of care can change over time, and patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of action for their individual needs. This analysis is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

For a more comprehensive and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources in Riverside, RI (ZIP Code 02915), including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.