20052, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20052, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.94 percent of the residents in 20052 has some form of health insurance. 4.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 95.98 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 20052 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,120 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 138 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20052. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21,751 health care providers accessible to residents in 20052, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Washington, D.C. (ZIP Code 20052) & Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the breast cancer landscape within ZIP code 20052, a specific area within Washington, D.C., requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of breast cancer screening and treatment resources, and the overall accessibility of care, with a focus on factors impacting patient outcomes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for residents of this area, especially those at higher risk or currently navigating a breast cancer diagnosis.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, is significantly linked to improved survival rates. In the 20052 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer primary care physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and referrals. Research into the specific ratio within this area is essential, comparing it to both the national average and the averages for other similarly sized urban areas. Public health data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and local D.C. government resources would provide this information.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This includes factors like the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate communication and coordination of care, and the availability of patient navigators who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Standout practices in the 20052 area should be identified, recognizing those that demonstrate a commitment to proactive screening, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. Reviews from patients, coupled with data from quality reporting initiatives, can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access primary care consultations, follow-up appointments, and even specialist consultations via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or demanding work schedules. The availability of telemedicine services among primary care providers in the 20052 area should be assessed, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the platforms, and the integration of these services into the overall care process. The pandemic accelerated telemedicine adoption; however, sustained use and integration are crucial for long-term benefits.

The availability of specialized breast cancer resources is a key determinant of the quality of care. This includes access to accredited breast imaging centers offering mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, as well as access to qualified radiologists and breast surgeons. The proximity of these resources to the 20052 ZIP code is important, as is the ability of patients to easily schedule appointments and receive timely results. Furthermore, the availability of comprehensive cancer centers offering multidisciplinary care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology, is crucial for patients requiring complex treatment. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) provide directories of accredited cancer centers, which can be utilized in this assessment.

Beyond the physical and medical aspects of care, the mental health of breast cancer patients is also a vital consideration. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be incredibly stressful, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore critical. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in working with cancer patients, the affordability of these services, and the integration of mental health support into the overall care plan. Local community organizations, hospitals, and cancer centers often provide these services.

The primary care landscape across Washington, D.C., as a whole impacts the 20052 ZIP code. A city-wide analysis reveals broader trends, such as physician shortages in specific areas, disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status, and the availability of specialized breast cancer services. Understanding these city-wide trends is essential for contextualizing the specific challenges and opportunities within the 20052 ZIP code. The District of Columbia's Department of Health (DOH) and other public health agencies often publish reports and data that can inform this broader assessment.

Primary care availability across Washington, D.C. is also influenced by factors like insurance coverage, access to transportation, and language barriers. Residents with limited access to health insurance or those who face transportation challenges may experience significant difficulties in accessing primary care and breast cancer screening services. Similarly, language barriers can create communication challenges and hinder the delivery of effective care. Addressing these social determinants of health is critical for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer care for all residents of the District.

The analysis of breast cancer resources within the 20052 ZIP code requires a deep dive into the specific practices and facilities serving the area. This involves assessing the quality of care provided by individual physicians and practices, as well as the overall accessibility and affordability of services. Data from various sources, including patient reviews, quality reporting initiatives, and public health data, should be integrated to provide a comprehensive and nuanced assessment. The goal is to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement within the local breast cancer care landscape.

In conclusion, a comprehensive breast cancer score analysis for ZIP code 20052 requires a multifaceted evaluation of primary care availability, the quality of breast cancer screening and treatment resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. By examining these factors, it is possible to identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all residents of the 20052 area have access to high-quality, timely, and compassionate breast cancer care.

For a visual representation of the primary care landscape and breast cancer resources in the 20052 ZIP code and across Washington, D.C., we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis.

**Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the data discussed in this report. Gain deeper insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and make informed decisions about your health.**