01355, New Salem, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01355, New Salem, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.25 percent of the residents in 01355 has some form of health insurance. 41.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.49 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 01355 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01355. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 168 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 113 health care providers accessible to residents in 01355, New Salem, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: ZIP Code 01355 & New Salem Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 01355 (Orange, Massachusetts) and the availability of primary care resources in the adjacent town of New Salem, focusing on factors relevant to breast cancer detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. The goal is to provide a nuanced “Breast Cancer Score” assessment, considering various aspects of healthcare access and quality.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in early detection. This necessitates a robust primary care infrastructure. In New Salem, a rural community, primary care availability is a critical consideration. The presence of a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio in New Salem needs careful examination. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, could lead to delayed appointments for routine screenings, including mammograms, and potentially hinder timely diagnosis. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to primary care, potentially leading to earlier detection and improved outcomes. Data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and local healthcare providers should be analyzed to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio in New Salem.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care available is also important. Does New Salem have practices that offer comprehensive care, including on-site services like basic bloodwork and referrals to specialists? The presence of family medicine practices, which often provide a wider range of services than internal medicine, could be beneficial. These factors influence a patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system efficiently.

Within ZIP code 01355, the availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is crucial. Proximity to these specialists is a significant factor. The distance a patient must travel for consultations, diagnostic tests (such as biopsies), and treatment (chemotherapy, radiation) directly impacts their experience. Longer travel times can lead to treatment delays and increased stress. The analysis should identify the closest oncology centers and radiology facilities serving the area, assessing their capacity and patient load.

The quality of care offered by these specialists is another critical element. This includes factors such as the experience and expertise of the physicians, the availability of advanced diagnostic technologies (e.g., 3D mammography, MRI), and the presence of multidisciplinary teams involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals. The analysis should investigate the accreditation status of local hospitals and cancer centers, as well as patient satisfaction scores.

The integration of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by both primary care physicians in New Salem and specialists serving ZIP code 01355 can significantly improve access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. The analysis should investigate the extent to which local healthcare providers utilize telemedicine platforms and the types of services they offer remotely.

Breast cancer treatment is not just about medical procedures; it also encompasses the patient's emotional and mental well-being. Access to mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, in both New Salem and ZIP code 01355. Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer patients? Does the local healthcare system offer resources to address the psychological impact of diagnosis and treatment? The presence of these resources can significantly improve a patient's quality of life during a challenging time.

Standout practices within ZIP code 01355 should be identified. These practices may excel in specific areas, such as early detection programs, patient education, or patient-centered care. The analysis should consider factors like the use of patient navigators, who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and the implementation of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment. Reviews and testimonials from patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by these practices.

The analysis should also examine the insurance landscape in the area. Does the majority of the population have access to affordable health insurance? The acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers is also important. Uninsured or underinsured patients may face significant barriers to accessing care, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the availability of patient education materials and resources. Are there readily available resources in both English and other languages commonly spoken in the area? Patient education is essential for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. The analysis should assess the availability of educational materials on breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for this area will be a composite of these factors. The score will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care available to residents of ZIP code 01355 and the surrounding area, particularly New Salem. This score will be a valuable tool for individuals seeking healthcare services, as well as for healthcare providers and policymakers working to improve breast cancer care in the region.

Ultimately, the goal is to highlight areas of strength and areas that require improvement. This detailed analysis, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and standout practices, will provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in this specific geographic region.

To further explore and visualize the data underlying this analysis, and to gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you identify patterns, trends, and disparities in healthcare access.