01373, South Deerfield, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01373, South Deerfield, Massachusetts is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.92 percent of the residents in 01373 has some form of health insurance. 33.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.11 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 01373 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 858 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01373. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,086 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 103 health care providers accessible to residents in 01373, South Deerfield, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: South Deerfield (ZIP Code 01373)

This analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within the South Deerfield, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01373) area, focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care provided, and the accessibility of resources for patients. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem concerning breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. This assessment will also consider the crucial role of mental health resources in navigating the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs). In South Deerfield, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and early detection. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility to primary care, which is the first line of defense in breast cancer screening. The analysis will delve into the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the 01373 ZIP code, comparing it to regional and national averages to assess the relative accessibility of primary care services.

Beyond mere availability, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences patient outcomes. Standout practices are those that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening programs, and foster strong patient-physician relationships. This assessment will identify and highlight practices within the area that demonstrate excellence in these areas. Factors considered include the availability of on-site mammography services, the implementation of patient education programs, and the use of electronic health records to facilitate seamless information sharing between specialists. The analysis will also explore the patient satisfaction levels within these practices, as measured through patient reviews and feedback.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate within the 01373 ZIP code is a key indicator of the healthcare system's responsiveness to patient needs. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments for breast cancer screening discussions, post-treatment support, and mental health counseling. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reduce barriers to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas.

The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis will evaluate the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or have experience supporting cancer patients within the South Deerfield area. It will also assess the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, including referrals from PCPs and oncologists, and the availability of support groups and educational programs. The analysis will assess the availability of resources for coping with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that often accompany a breast cancer diagnosis.

The analysis will also consider the proximity and accessibility of specialized cancer centers and oncologists. While primary care physicians are crucial for early detection and preventative care, patients often require referrals to oncologists and specialized treatment centers for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The analysis will identify the closest cancer centers and oncologists, assessing their reputation, the range of services offered, and the ease of access for patients in the 01373 ZIP code. This includes evaluating the availability of transportation options, the wait times for appointments, and the overall patient experience within these specialized facilities.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, financial assistance programs, and educational resources. Patient navigators play a crucial role in helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Financial assistance programs can help patients manage the costs of treatment, including medications, co-pays, and other expenses. Educational resources, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and connect with others who have similar experiences.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' for South Deerfield (ZIP code 01373) will be a composite score, reflecting the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the accessibility of specialized cancer care, and the availability of support services. This score will provide a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address the needs of breast cancer patients. It will also highlight areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all patients have access to high-quality, compassionate care.

The analysis will use publicly available data, including information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, and other reliable sources. Patient reviews and feedback will also be considered to provide a more holistic view of the patient experience. The analysis will be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to ensure that the information remains current and relevant.

This analysis, while comprehensive, represents a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and the availability of resources and the quality of care can change. For the most up-to-date and interactive view of healthcare resources in your area, including physician locations, practice details, and service offerings, consider exploring the interactive maps available through CartoChrome.