01094, Wheelwright, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01094, Wheelwright, Massachusetts is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 01094 has some form of health insurance. 64.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.29 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 01094 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01094. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 197 health care providers accessible to residents in 01094, Wheelwright, Massachusetts.

The analysis below assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 01094, encompassing the area of Wheelwright, Massachusetts, with a focus on primary care availability and related resources. This 'Breast Cancer Score' aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, evaluating factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. The goal is to highlight strengths and weaknesses, offering insights for residents and healthcare professionals alike.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced opportunities for preventative screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Analyzing this metric requires data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the specified ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from sources such as the US Census Bureau and state medical boards, combined with information from healthcare directories, can be used to calculate this ratio. The quality of the data will dictate the accuracy of the ratio.

The availability of primary care is especially critical. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients, facilitating breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms, and providing referrals to specialists. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of PCPs, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of new patients. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of these practices within Wheelwright is important. Are they clustered in one area, or are they spread out, providing easier access for residents across the community? This geographic analysis is crucial for understanding accessibility.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. Identifying these practices requires evaluating several factors. The presence of on-site mammography services, for example, is a significant advantage, as it streamlines the screening process. The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important consideration, as EHRs facilitate better coordination of care and the tracking of patient health information. The practice's commitment to patient education, including providing resources on breast cancer awareness and prevention, is also a key indicator of quality. Patient satisfaction surveys, when available, offer valuable insights into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption has transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations with PCPs or specialists, can improve access to care for patients in Wheelwright, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer these services, the types of services offered (e.g., general consultations, follow-up appointments), and the technology platforms used. The ease of use and the availability of technical support are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally devastating, and access to mental health support is essential for patients' well-being. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying the availability of therapists, counselors, and support groups in the Wheelwright area. The location of these resources, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of insurance are also important factors. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling, is a significant advantage.

The analysis should also consider the presence of any specialized breast cancer centers or facilities within or near ZIP code 01094. These centers often offer comprehensive care, including advanced imaging, surgical options, and chemotherapy. The proximity of these facilities, the range of services offered, and the expertise of the medical staff are all important factors to evaluate. The availability of clinical trials and research opportunities can also be a benefit for patients.

Data collection for this 'Breast Cancer Score' necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available data sources, such as the US Census Bureau, state medical boards, and healthcare directories, can provide information on physician counts, practice locations, and demographic data. Practice websites and phone calls can provide information on services offered, telemedicine adoption, and patient acceptance. Patient reviews and online forums can offer insights into patient experiences. The integration of this data, combined with local knowledge, will create a comprehensive assessment.

The limitations of this analysis should be acknowledged. Data availability may be limited, and the accuracy of the data depends on the quality of the sources. The analysis focuses on the availability of resources, not necessarily the quality of care provided. Patient experiences and individual preferences are not fully captured. The analysis is a snapshot in time, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

This 'Breast Cancer Score' provides a framework for understanding the breast cancer care landscape in Wheelwright. It emphasizes the importance of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis highlights the need for accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. It is important to consider that this is a starting point, and further research and consultation with healthcare professionals are recommended for making informed decisions about care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wheelwright, including the locations of healthcare providers, access to transportation, and other relevant factors, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a spatial context to the data, helping to visualize the accessibility of care and identify areas where resources may be lacking.