20017, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20017, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 20017 has some form of health insurance. 36.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.69 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 20017 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,221 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20017. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,193 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,296 health care providers accessible to residents in 20017, Washington, District of Columbia.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, and the quality of care available can vary significantly depending on location and access to resources. This analysis focuses on evaluating the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 20017 (Washington, D.C.) and the broader context of primary care availability in the city, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. We'll assess the availability of primary care, which is crucial for early detection and ongoing support, and then drill down to the specifics of breast cancer care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in robust primary care. In Washington, D.C., and particularly within ZIP code 20017, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio generally suggests better access and the possibility of more comprehensive preventative care. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local healthcare provider directories can provide valuable insights into these ratios. Areas with a shortage of primary care physicians may experience delays in diagnosis, which can negatively impact patient outcomes.

Beyond simple numbers, the distribution of primary care physicians across the city is also important. Are primary care practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Analyzing the geographical distribution of practices helps identify potential healthcare deserts, where access to care is limited. Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available—whether they are solo practices, group practices, or part of larger healthcare systems—can influence the breadth of services offered and the level of coordination of care.

In the specific context of breast cancer, primary care physicians play a crucial role in early detection. They are often the first point of contact for patients, providing routine screenings like mammograms and educating patients about risk factors and prevention strategies. The quality of primary care, therefore, directly impacts the likelihood of early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Moving beyond primary care, we delve into the specifics of breast cancer care within 20017 and the wider Washington, D.C. area. Assessing the quality of breast cancer care involves examining the presence of specialized facilities, such as comprehensive breast centers, and the expertise of the medical professionals practicing within them. The availability of board-certified oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons specializing in breast cancer is a crucial indicator of the quality of care. Examining the credentials and experience of these specialists provides insight into the level of expertise available to patients.

Identifying standout practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Reviews from patients, accreditation from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACS), and outcomes data (where available) are all valuable sources of information. Practices that consistently demonstrate positive patient outcomes, offer a range of services, and have a strong commitment to patient-centered care are likely to be considered top performers. Factors like the availability of genetic counseling, access to clinical trials, and support services (such as patient navigators and support groups) also contribute to a practice's overall rating.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, especially in recent years. Its adoption in breast cancer care, both in 20017 and throughout Washington, D.C., is worth evaluating. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live in areas with limited access to specialists or who have mobility issues. Telehealth consultations can facilitate remote monitoring, follow-up appointments, and access to educational resources. The availability of telemedicine platforms and the extent to which they are integrated into the care process are important indicators of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health is an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional and psychological well-being. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for helping patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the availability of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them is a key element in evaluating the quality of breast cancer care.

The integration of mental health services can take many forms. Some practices may have in-house therapists, while others may partner with external mental health providers. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community for patients. The presence of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them are important indicators of a practice's commitment to holistic patient care.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 20017 and Washington, D.C., requires a comprehensive assessment of primary care availability, the expertise of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors, the complexity of healthcare requires continuous monitoring and evaluation.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify patterns, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Explore CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in your area.