20004, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20004, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 20004 has some form of health insurance. 14.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.90 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 20004 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 49 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 133 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20004. An estimate of 25 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,315 health care providers accessible to residents in 20004, Washington, District of Columbia.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Washington, D.C. (ZIP Code 20004) and Primary Care Landscape**

Analyzing breast cancer care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, considering not just the availability of oncologists, but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 20004 in Washington, D.C., a central location, and examines primary care availability throughout the city, assessing factors that impact a patient's journey from initial screening to survivorship. The goal is to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of care, with specific considerations for the unique needs of breast cancer patients.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system rests on strong primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the gatekeepers to early detection, offering crucial preventative screenings like mammograms and clinical breast exams. The availability of PCPs, therefore, is a critical component of our score. Washington, D.C., generally has a good, though not perfect, physician-to-patient ratio. However, this ratio can vary significantly across different neighborhoods. ZIP code 20004, being a densely populated area, may experience higher patient volume per PCP, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time a patient can spend with their physician. This directly affects the early detection of breast cancer.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the PCP's knowledge of breast cancer risk factors, their willingness to discuss family history, and their adherence to current screening guidelines. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider the percentage of PCPs in Washington, D.C., who are actively participating in programs that promote quality breast cancer screening and early detection. This includes participation in programs like the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) or similar initiatives.

Once a patient is suspected of having breast cancer, timely access to specialists becomes essential. The presence of qualified oncologists and breast surgeons within and near ZIP code 20004 is a key determinant of the score. This includes assessing the number of board-certified oncologists, their experience, and their affiliation with reputable hospitals. The proximity of these specialists to the patient's location is also critical, as long travel times can add stress and delay care. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the concentration of specialists in the area, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of multidisciplinary care teams, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, and support staff.

Standout practices within the 20004 ZIP code and the broader Washington, D.C. area deserve special recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to excellence in breast cancer care, incorporating innovative treatment approaches, participating in clinical trials, and providing comprehensive patient support. These practices are likely to have a higher "Breast Cancer Score." The analysis will highlight practices that offer specialized services, such as genetic counseling, breast reconstruction options, and survivorship programs.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, especially for follow-up appointments or second opinions, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the extent to which practices in the 20004 ZIP code and throughout Washington, D.C. offer telemedicine services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals.

Mental health resources are crucial for breast cancer patients. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health services specifically tailored to breast cancer patients. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and psychiatric care. The analysis will consider the integration of mental health services within oncology practices and the availability of resources that address the unique psychological needs of patients.

The analysis will also consider the patient experience. This includes factors such as the ease of scheduling appointments, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, the availability of patient education materials, and the overall satisfaction of patients with their care. Patient feedback and reviews will be incorporated into the "Breast Cancer Score" to provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient-centeredness of care in the area.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the availability of financial assistance programs for breast cancer patients. Treatment costs can be a significant burden, and access to financial resources can help patients afford necessary care. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of programs that provide financial assistance, such as grants, co-pay assistance, and access to free or low-cost mammograms.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" will be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape. The analysis will be updated regularly to incorporate new data, new treatment approaches, and changes in healthcare policies. This will ensure that the score remains a relevant and reliable resource for patients and healthcare providers.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite measure, combining the various factors discussed above. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance in the overall quality and accessibility of breast cancer care. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, making it easy for patients to understand and use.

The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care in the 20004 ZIP code and the broader Washington, D.C. area. This information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their care, by healthcare providers to improve their services, and by policymakers to address gaps in care. The analysis aims to promote early detection, timely treatment, and comprehensive support for all breast cancer patients.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Washington, D.C., and see how these factors map out geographically? Explore the data and gain a deeper understanding of the accessibility of care with CartoChrome maps.