01338, Buckland, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01338, Buckland, Massachusetts is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 01338 has some form of health insurance. 69.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.35 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 01338 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01338. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 41 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 269 health care providers accessible to residents in 01338, Buckland, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Buckland, MA (ZIP Code 01338)

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care within ZIP code 01338 (Buckland, Massachusetts), focusing on physician availability, quality of care, and supportive resources. The goal is to assess the overall “Breast Cancer Score” for the area, considering factors crucial to patient outcomes and experience. This score, while not a single numerical value, reflects a qualitative assessment of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any robust breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Buckland, a relatively small town, presents a unique challenge. Primary care serves as the gateway to early detection and diagnosis. A low physician-to-patient ratio can significantly hinder access to timely screenings and referrals. Evaluating this ratio is the first critical step. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, coupled with information from local healthcare providers, is essential to determine the current PCP availability. We need to consider the number of active, practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and, importantly, those accepting new patients.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the practices' adherence to established screening guidelines, such as those recommended by the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Are physicians proactively recommending mammograms for eligible women? Do they have systems in place to track patients' screening history and ensure timely follow-up? Practices with robust electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate these processes would score higher. Furthermore, the accessibility of appointments plays a significant role. Waiting times for routine checkups and concerns about breast health should be minimal.

Analyzing the presence of standout practices is a crucial element. This involves identifying clinics or individual physicians recognized for their excellence in breast cancer care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, comprehensive screening programs, and a strong network of specialists. They might offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or bilingual services to cater to diverse patient needs. Identifying these "centers of excellence" helps to highlight best practices and inform patients where to seek the highest quality care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor influencing the "Breast Cancer Score." Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual follow-up appointments, and providing online access to test results and educational materials, would receive a higher score. The ease of access to these technologies, including the availability of necessary equipment and reliable internet connectivity, is also considered.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The "Breast Cancer Score" assesses the availability of mental health support within the Buckland community and the referral pathways established by local healthcare providers. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and psychiatric services. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate resources would contribute positively to the overall score. The integration of mental health services into the broader cancer care plan is a key indicator of a patient-centered approach.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized breast cancer care within the region is assessed. While Buckland may not have its own dedicated oncology centers, access to these specialists within a reasonable distance is crucial. This includes oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care of breast cancer patients. The ease of referral to these specialists, the coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options are all critical factors.

The "Breast Cancer Score" also considers the availability of patient navigation services. Patient navigators act as guides, helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments to understanding treatment options and accessing financial assistance. Practices that have dedicated patient navigators or collaborate with organizations that provide these services would receive a higher score. This support is particularly valuable for patients who may be facing financial hardship or language barriers.

Finally, the "Breast Cancer Score" incorporates the community's overall awareness of breast cancer and the resources available. This includes the prevalence of breast cancer awareness campaigns, the availability of educational materials, and the involvement of local organizations in supporting breast cancer patients. A community that actively promotes early detection and provides support for those affected by breast cancer would contribute positively to the overall score.

In conclusion, assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" for Buckland, MA (ZIP code 01338) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall community support for breast cancer patients. While the region may present challenges due to its size and location, a comprehensive analysis can identify areas of strength and areas for improvement. This information can then be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately improving the quality of breast cancer care within the community.

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