20204, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20204, Washington, District of Columbia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 20204 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 20204 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20204. An estimate of 0 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 16,784 health care providers accessible to residents in 20204, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Washington, D.C. (ZIP Code 20204) and Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related care within Washington, D.C., specifically focusing on the ZIP code 20204, and provides a broader perspective on primary care access throughout the city. We aim to assess a "Breast Cancer Score" by evaluating several key factors impacting patient outcomes, including physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. This assessment is not a definitive ranking but rather a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the healthcare ecosystem.

ZIP Code 20204, encompassing a significant portion of the federal government and surrounding areas, presents a unique healthcare landscape. While it might not be a residential area with a high concentration of primary care practices, the proximity to major hospitals and specialist centers is a crucial factor. Access to specialized breast cancer care, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, is likely to be relatively high due to the presence of prominent medical institutions. However, the availability of primary care physicians, the crucial gatekeepers for early detection and preventative care, requires closer examination.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. While specific ratios for 20204 are difficult to pinpoint due to the transient nature of the population and the presence of federal employees, the overall physician density in Washington, D.C., is generally considered favorable compared to the national average. However, this doesn't necessarily translate to equitable distribution. Areas with higher concentrations of underserved populations may experience physician shortages, impacting timely access to care. Furthermore, the specialty of primary care is experiencing a nationwide shortage, potentially exacerbating access challenges.

Standout practices, those excelling in breast cancer care, often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive services. This includes early detection programs, such as mammography and breast exams, coordinated care with specialists, and patient navigation services to guide individuals through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. Practices that integrate multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and support staff, tend to provide a higher quality of care. The presence of dedicated breast cancer centers, offering a one-stop-shop for diagnosis, treatment, and support, is a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in expanding access to care, particularly for patients facing mobility challenges, transportation difficulties, or geographical barriers. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, improving convenience and potentially reducing healthcare costs. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms for breast cancer screening, consultations, and support services are likely to receive a higher score in this analysis.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Practices that integrate mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, into their care teams demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. Access to support groups, counseling services, and educational resources related to mental health is crucial for patients navigating the challenges of breast cancer.

The broader primary care landscape in Washington, D.C., significantly impacts breast cancer outcomes. Primary care physicians are vital for preventative care, including breast cancer screening recommendations, risk assessments, and referrals to specialists. The availability of accessible and affordable primary care services is, therefore, a crucial factor in early detection and improved survival rates. The city's healthcare system should be evaluated for its ability to provide equitable access to primary care across all communities.

Analyzing the primary care availability necessitates evaluating factors like insurance coverage, the presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and the availability of after-hours care. FQHCs often serve as crucial safety nets, providing care to underserved populations. The existence of a robust network of primary care providers, accessible to all residents, is a key indicator of a strong healthcare system.

In the context of ZIP Code 20204, the proximity to major medical centers and specialist practices likely provides good access to specialized breast cancer care. However, the availability of primary care within the immediate area might be limited. Residents may need to travel to other parts of the city to access primary care services. This underscores the importance of evaluating the overall healthcare ecosystem, including transportation options and the availability of resources across the city.

This analysis has considered the importance of early detection. The availability of timely mammograms, breast exams, and access to diagnostic imaging are crucial. Practices that prioritize early detection programs, offer convenient scheduling, and provide patient education about breast cancer risk factors are likely to score higher. The integration of these services within primary care practices is a significant advantage.

The evaluation of patient outcomes is a key component of this analysis. Practices that track patient outcomes, such as survival rates, recurrence rates, and patient satisfaction, demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement. Data-driven insights can inform clinical practices and improve patient care. Practices that are transparent about their outcomes and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives are likely to be highly regarded.

The role of patient education and empowerment cannot be overstated. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about breast cancer, treatment options, and support resources empower individuals to make informed decisions about their care. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for the 20204 ZIP code and the broader primary care landscape in Washington, D.C., is complex. While specialized care access is likely strong, the availability of primary care and the equitable distribution of resources across all communities require careful consideration. Factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support significantly impact the overall score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Washington, D.C., and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers powerful visualization tools to analyze healthcare data and identify areas of need and opportunity.