01531, New Braintree, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01531, New Braintree, Massachusetts is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.53 percent of the residents in 01531 has some form of health insurance. 41.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.29 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 01531 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 209 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01531. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 769 health care providers accessible to residents in 01531, New Braintree, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01531 & Primary Care in New Braintree

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning breast cancer care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in New Braintree, Massachusetts, and the quality of breast cancer care provided by physicians within ZIP code 01531 (Holden, MA). While a formal "Breast Cancer Score" is not a standardized metric, this analysis provides a framework to assess the landscape, considering key factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

New Braintree, a smaller community, presents a different challenge than Holden in terms of healthcare access. The availability of PCPs is crucial, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. A low PCP-to-population ratio in New Braintree could indicate potential barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. This could lead to delays in mammograms, biopsies, and referrals to specialists, ultimately impacting patient outcomes.

In contrast, Holden (ZIP code 01531), with its larger population, offers a more diverse healthcare environment. Assessing the quality of breast cancer care within this ZIP code involves evaluating the practices of various physicians, including primary care doctors, oncologists, and surgeons. The presence of board-certified specialists in breast cancer care is a significant indicator of quality. Furthermore, the affiliations of these physicians with larger hospitals or cancer centers can provide access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as clinical trials and specialized surgical techniques.

Physician-to-patient ratios in both locations are critical. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. This is particularly concerning for breast cancer, where early detection is paramount. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau would be necessary to calculate these ratios accurately for both New Braintree and Holden.

Standout practices within ZIP code 01531 can be identified by several factors. Patient reviews, online ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the American College of Surgeons (for surgical practices) or the Commission on Cancer (for cancer centers) can indicate a commitment to quality care. Practices that offer comprehensive breast cancer services, including mammography, biopsy, surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, would be considered highly desirable. Examining the types of equipment available, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), can also provide insight into the practice's commitment to advanced diagnostic techniques.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or discussing test results, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience and reduce the burden on patients. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the range of services offered, is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are a vital component of comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health support is crucial for patients' well-being. Evaluating the availability of on-site or referral-based mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is a key factor in assessing the quality of care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

For New Braintree, the availability of these resources is particularly important. The smaller size of the community might mean that access to specialized care, including mental health services, is more limited. Therefore, it is essential to assess how readily available such resources are, either directly or through referrals to nearby towns or cities. The presence of community-based support groups and organizations offering assistance to cancer patients can also significantly enhance the quality of care.

The analysis should also consider the insurance coverage accepted by the physicians and practices in both locations. Access to care is significantly affected by insurance acceptance. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, can improve accessibility for a broader population.

Furthermore, the analysis should evaluate the practices' commitment to patient education and communication. Providing clear and concise information about breast cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects is crucial for empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, and patient navigators can contribute to a more positive patient experience.

In conclusion, evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 01531 and assessing primary care availability in New Braintree requires a comprehensive review. This includes analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. This analysis provides a starting point for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in breast cancer care in these specific locations.

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