20015, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20015, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.43 percent of the residents in 20015 has some form of health insurance. 24.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.32 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 20015 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,080 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20015. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,716 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,316 health care providers accessible to residents in 20015, Washington, District of Columbia.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, demanding a multidisciplinary approach. This analysis assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 20015, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources in Washington, D.C., to provide a preliminary 'Breast Cancer Score' ranking. The goal is to understand the accessibility of care, not to definitively rank individual physicians.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care often rests on the strength of the primary care network. PCPs are crucial for early detection through screening recommendations, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. In ZIP code 20015, a preliminary assessment of primary care availability reveals a mixed picture. While the area benefits from proximity to major hospitals and healthcare systems, the concentration of PCPs and their accessibility vary. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. National averages suggest a benchmark, but the actual ratio within 20015 needs specific investigation. Data from sources like the American Medical Association (AMA) and local healthcare directories are necessary to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing and accepting new patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate greater accessibility, while a high ratio might point to potential challenges in securing timely appointments.

Standout practices within 20015 and the broader Washington, D.C., area are essential. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, incorporating best practices for breast cancer screening and referral pathways. Identifying these practices requires analyzing factors such as patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance - NCQA), and participation in quality improvement programs. Information on the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for acute concerns is also useful.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, which is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. The extent of telemedicine adoption by PCPs in 20015 can be assessed by examining practice websites, insurance coverage for telehealth services, and patient feedback. Practices that embrace telemedicine may be more accessible and convenient for patients, leading to better adherence to screening and treatment plans.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are critical for breast cancer patients. A diagnosis and treatment can cause significant emotional distress. The availability of mental health support, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a key factor in the overall 'Breast Cancer Score.' Access to these resources can be evaluated by examining the partnerships between PCPs and mental health professionals, the availability of on-site mental health services, and the referral pathways for patients needing mental health support.

The broader context of primary care availability in Washington, D.C., influences the 'Breast Cancer Score' for 20015. The District’s healthcare infrastructure, including the number of hospitals, specialty clinics, and community health centers, impacts access to care. Geographic disparities in access to care are also a consideration. Some areas of D.C. may have better access to PCPs and specialists than others.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' should consider the demographics of the population served. Factors like age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence health outcomes and access to care. For example, screening rates may vary across different demographic groups. The availability of culturally sensitive care and language services is also essential.

Another factor to consider is the integration of technology. Electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate communication between PCPs, specialists, and patients. EHR systems that allow patients to access their medical records and communicate with their care team can improve care coordination and patient engagement. The adoption of EHRs and patient portals is a factor in the overall assessment.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' should be a dynamic measure. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other factors. Continuous monitoring and analysis are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the score.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 20015, and the broader Washington, D.C., area, will be a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. The score will not be a simple ranking of individual physicians. Instead, it will be an assessment of the overall healthcare environment. The goal is to provide information that can help patients make informed decisions about their care.

This preliminary analysis highlights the complexity of assessing breast cancer care. A comprehensive evaluation would require detailed data collection, analysis, and ongoing monitoring. The quality of care is not solely determined by the availability of resources. It is also influenced by factors such as patient-physician communication, the experience of healthcare providers, and the overall quality of the healthcare system.

The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all important considerations. The 'Breast Cancer Score' can be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

To gain a more granular understanding of healthcare access in the 20015 ZIP code and throughout Washington, D.C., consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for detailed analysis and informed decision-making.