The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01473, Westminster, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 99.32 percent of the residents in 01473 has some form of health insurance. 32.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.24 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 01473 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,789 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01473. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,775 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 643 health care providers accessible to residents in 01473, Westminster, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 01473, Westminster, Massachusetts
Breast Cancer Score | 91 |
---|---|
People Score | 71 |
Provider Score | 79 |
Hospital Score | 46 |
Travel Score | 68 |
01473 | Westminster | Massachusetts | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Westminster, MA (ZIP Code 01473)
This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within Westminster, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01473), focusing on primary care availability and the quality of services offered by local physicians. It aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score" based on several key metrics, ultimately informing residents about the resources available for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. In Westminster, the availability of primary care physicians significantly impacts a patient's journey, from initial screening to ongoing support. A high physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access, leading to more frequent check-ups and earlier detection. Conversely, a low ratio may result in longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Data on the physician-to-patient ratio in Westminster is essential for understanding the overall accessibility of care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local hospital systems should be consulted to accurately determine this ratio.
Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care, specifically breast cancer screening. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers factors like the frequency of mammogram recommendations, the use of digital mammography, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services. Practices that proactively schedule mammograms, offer clear patient education materials, and have strong referral networks to specialists will score higher. It's crucial to assess whether practices adhere to the latest screening guidelines from organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).
Identifying standout practices within Westminster requires a deeper dive. This involves researching individual physician profiles, practice philosophies, and patient reviews. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offering comprehensive services and a supportive environment, deserve recognition. The "Breast Cancer Score" should incorporate factors like the availability of bilingual staff, extended hours, and the ease of scheduling appointments. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about breast cancer and promoting early detection, should be highly regarded.
Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. The ability to offer virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and discussing test results, can significantly improve patient convenience and access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering secure and reliable virtual platforms, deserve positive consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" should reflect the availability and utilization of telemedicine services, assessing the ease of use, the quality of virtual interactions, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan.
Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, and access to mental health support is vital for patients' well-being. The "Breast Cancer Score" should evaluate the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site counseling, partner with mental health professionals, or provide information about support groups and other resources. Practices that prioritize the mental health of their patients, recognizing the emotional toll of the disease, will receive a higher score.
The referral network is a critical element of the care continuum. Primary care physicians need strong relationships with specialists, including radiologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the strength and efficiency of these referral pathways. Practices that have established relationships with reputable specialists, facilitating seamless communication and coordination of care, will be highly valued. This includes assessing the speed of referrals, the availability of shared electronic health records, and the overall coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists.
The "Breast Cancer Score" is not just a numerical rating; it's a holistic assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Westminster. It considers a range of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the availability of mental health resources. It should also incorporate patient feedback, gathered through surveys and reviews, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the patient experience. By analyzing these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system.
Ultimately, the goal is to empower patients with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of breast cancer care. The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a valuable tool, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and promoting improvements in access, quality, and patient-centered care.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Westminster, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations, allowing you to explore the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare.
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