20230, Washington, District of Columbia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 20230, 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 20230 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 20230 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 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 20230. An estimate of 1 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 4,498 health care providers accessible to residents in 20230, Washington, District of Columbia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Washington, DC & ZIP Code 20230

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Washington, DC, with a specific focus on the 20230 ZIP code, examining physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in accessing quality care.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundational layer of any breast cancer care system. Early detection, through routine screenings and patient education, often begins with the PCP. In Washington, DC, and specifically within the 20230 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. While precise, real-time ratios fluctuate, publicly available data (e.g., from the Health Resources & Services Administration) and local medical society reports can be used to estimate the density of PCPs. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes. This data, however, must be interpreted with caution, accounting for factors like physician specialization, patient demographics, and insurance coverage.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that emphasize preventive care, including regular breast cancer screenings (mammograms, clinical breast exams), are vital. The "Breast Cancer Score" would consider factors such as the percentage of patients receiving recommended screenings, the availability of patient education materials, and the practice’s commitment to evidence-based guidelines. Practices that consistently meet or exceed these standards would receive higher scores.

Within the 20230 ZIP code, several primary care practices may stand out. These practices could be identified through patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance), and participation in quality improvement initiatives. The "Breast Cancer Score" would evaluate these practices based on their adherence to best practices in breast cancer screening and patient management. Furthermore, practices that actively collaborate with specialists, such as oncologists and radiologists, would be recognized for their integrated approach to care.

The rise of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, including breast cancer care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, especially for patients in underserved areas, and the convenience of virtual consultations. The "Breast Cancer Score" would assess the adoption of telemedicine within the 20230 ZIP code. Practices that offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, patient education, and even initial screenings would receive higher scores. The availability of remote monitoring tools, allowing patients to track their symptoms and communicate with their care team, would also be considered.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally and psychologically challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The "Breast Cancer Score" would evaluate the availability of mental health resources for patients within the 20230 ZIP code. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Practices that proactively screen patients for mental health concerns and offer referrals to appropriate resources would be highly valued. Collaboration between oncologists, primary care physicians, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" would also consider the availability of specialized breast cancer centers within the Washington, DC area. These centers typically offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists under one roof. The presence of such centers, along with their accreditation status and patient outcomes, would significantly impact the overall score. Furthermore, the availability of advanced technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and genetic testing, would be factored into the assessment.

In evaluating the 20230 ZIP code specifically, the "Breast Cancer Score" would account for the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. The score would consider whether practices are culturally sensitive and provide care that is tailored to the specific needs of the community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" would be a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on evolving medical guidelines, technological advancements, and community needs. Regular updates would be necessary to ensure that the score reflects the most current information. The score would not only rank physicians and practices but also identify areas for improvement within the healthcare system.

The analysis would also consider the role of patient advocacy groups and community organizations in supporting breast cancer patients. These groups often provide valuable resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance. The "Breast Cancer Score" would recognize the contributions of these organizations and their impact on patient well-being.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for the 20230 ZIP code would be a composite score, reflecting the various factors discussed above. The score would provide a valuable tool for patients seeking breast cancer care, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare. It would also serve as a benchmark for healthcare providers, encouraging them to continuously improve the quality of their services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The analysis would be a starting point for a more in-depth exploration of the healthcare landscape in the 20230 ZIP code and the broader Washington, DC area.

To visualize this data, understand the geographic distribution of resources, and compare the "Breast Cancer Score" across different areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can bring this data to life, allowing you to analyze physician locations, practice characteristics, and community resources in a visually compelling way.