01826, Dracut, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01826, Dracut, Massachusetts is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 01826 has some form of health insurance. 32.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.22 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 01826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,496 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01826. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,250 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,337 health care providers accessible to residents in 01826, Dracut, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Dracut, MA (ZIP Code 01826)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer-related healthcare within Dracut, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01826), focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on early detection and patient support. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for the area. This score is a qualitative assessment based on the available data and aims to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape.

Dracut, a town in Middlesex County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger cities like Lowell and Boston offers access to advanced medical facilities, but the local primary care infrastructure plays a crucial role in initial screenings, referrals, and ongoing patient management. The Breast Cancer Score will reflect the effectiveness of this local network in supporting breast cancer patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care**

A critical factor in evaluating breast cancer care is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to appointments, more personalized care, and potentially, earlier detection of health issues. Unfortunately, precise physician-to-patient ratios at the ZIP code level are often difficult to obtain due to data privacy concerns and variations in practice models. However, publicly available data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with census data for Dracut (population approximately 31,000), can provide a rough estimate of PCP density.

Based on these estimates, Dracut appears to have a moderate PCP density. This suggests that while access to a PCP is generally available, patients may experience delays in scheduling appointments, particularly during peak seasons. This access issue can affect the timely execution of breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms. Early detection is paramount in breast cancer treatment, and any delay in accessing a PCP for initial concerns or referrals can negatively impact patient outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles, patient reviews, and practice accreditations. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive patient education, and utilize advanced screening technologies are more likely to provide superior breast cancer support.

One key indicator of a practice's commitment to breast cancer care is the presence of a dedicated women's health program or a strong emphasis on preventative screenings. Practices that actively remind patients of their screening appointments, provide educational materials about breast cancer risk factors and self-examination techniques, and offer convenient scheduling options are likely to score higher in terms of patient satisfaction and overall quality of care. Practices that are affiliated with larger hospital systems, such as Lowell General Hospital, may have better access to resources and specialists, which can further enhance the quality of care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those who require follow-up consultations. Its adoption in Dracut is a key factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

The availability of telemedicine options for primary care visits, follow-up appointments, and even initial consultations can streamline the patient journey. Practices that offer virtual consultations for discussing screening results, providing patient education, or addressing concerns can significantly improve patient convenience and potentially lead to earlier intervention. The degree to which practices utilize secure online patient portals for communication, appointment scheduling, and access to medical records also influences the score.

**Mental Health Resources and Patient Support**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is a crucial component of comprehensive care.

Practices that offer on-site counseling services, partner with local mental health professionals, or have established referral pathways for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. The ability of PCPs to recognize and address the psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Practices that offer support groups, educational workshops, or access to patient navigators further enhance their score.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Based on the available information, the Breast Cancer Score for Dracut, MA (ZIP code 01826) is assessed as **Moderate**. While the area benefits from its proximity to major medical centers and the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals, several factors limit the score. The estimated physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential access challenges. The adoption of telemedicine appears to be moderate, with room for improvement. While the presence of mental health resources is likely available, the extent of their integration into primary care practices requires further investigation.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape in Dracut, MA, offers a mixed bag for breast cancer patients. While access to primary care is generally available, factors such as physician-to-patient ratios and telemedicine adoption could be improved. The availability of mental health resources is a key consideration.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment, including the location of medical facilities, physician specialties, and other relevant data, consider exploring the interactive mapping tools provided by CartoChrome. These tools can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, helping patients and healthcare providers alike to navigate the system and make informed decisions.