01343, Drury, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01343, Drury, Massachusetts is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.24 percent of the residents in 01343 has some form of health insurance. 32.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.76 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 01343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 23 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20 health care providers accessible to residents in 01343, Drury, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 01343 & Drury Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 01343, focusing on the availability and quality of services provided by physicians and the broader primary care infrastructure in the town of Drury. We will examine key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment. This assessment aims to inform residents about the resources available to them and highlight areas for potential improvement.

The initial assessment focuses on physician-to-patient ratios, a crucial metric for evaluating access to care. Within ZIP code 01343, the concentration of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of women to receive timely screenings, diagnoses, and ongoing care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater availability of doctors, is generally associated with better outcomes. However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The analysis must also consider the specialization of these physicians. Are there dedicated breast cancer specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, within a reasonable geographic radius? The presence of these specialists significantly enhances the overall score, as it reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized consultations and treatments.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care provided by individual practices is a significant factor. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several criteria. Does the practice offer comprehensive breast cancer screening services, including mammograms, ultrasounds, and potentially MRIs? Are they accredited by reputable organizations, such as the American College of Radiology? What is the practice's approach to patient education and support? Do they provide resources on risk factors, prevention, and treatment options? Practices that excel in these areas receive higher scores, reflecting a commitment to providing holistic and patient-centered care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element of the assessment. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, has the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up care, medication management, and even initial consultations, receive higher scores. This technology allows for greater flexibility and convenience, potentially reducing the burden on patients and improving their overall experience. The analysis also examines the use of telemedicine for providing access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be substantial. Therefore, the availability of mental health support services is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score. Does the practice offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals? Do they provide support groups or educational programs to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the disease? Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and integrate these services into their care model receive higher scores. This demonstrates a commitment to treating the whole patient, not just the disease.

The primary care infrastructure in Drury also plays a crucial role in the overall assessment. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a vital role in early detection and referral. The analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians in Drury, their ability to provide preventative care, and their knowledge of breast cancer screening guidelines. The closer and more accessible the primary care resources, the better the score. This includes evaluating the availability of after-hours care, weekend appointments, and the practice's ability to coordinate care with specialists.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the integration of technology and data analytics. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data, manage appointments, and facilitate communication? Are they using data to improve patient outcomes and identify areas for improvement in their care delivery? Practices that embrace technology and leverage data analytics are often better equipped to provide efficient and effective care, leading to higher scores. This also includes assessing the practice's ability to communicate with patients through patient portals and other digital tools.

The assessment also examines the availability of financial assistance programs and resources. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and financial barriers can prevent patients from accessing the care they need. Practices that offer information about financial assistance programs, such as grants, insurance coverage, and payment plans, receive higher scores. This demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that all patients, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to quality care. The analysis also considers the practice's ability to navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and assist patients in accessing the necessary resources.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 01343 and the primary care landscape in Drury is a multifaceted assessment that considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall infrastructure of care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the resources available to women in the area and to highlight areas where improvements can be made. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and empowers residents to make informed decisions about their health.

For a visual representation of this data, including physician locations, practice ratings, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and detailed view of the breast cancer care landscape in your community.