01833, Georgetown, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01833, Georgetown, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.14 percent of the residents in 01833 has some form of health insurance. 21.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.28 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 01833 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,082 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01833. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,455 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,286 health care providers accessible to residents in 01833, Georgetown, Massachusetts.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Georgetown, MA (ZIP Code 01833)**

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within Georgetown, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01833), focusing on primary care physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of care, highlighting strengths and identifying areas for potential improvement.

Georgetown, a small town in Essex County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger cities like Boston offers advantages in terms of access to specialized care, but the town's size can also influence the availability of primary care physicians and the resources dedicated to breast cancer screening and treatment.

**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is a strong primary care foundation. Regular screenings, early detection, and patient education often begin with a primary care physician (PCP). Evaluating the availability of PCPs in Georgetown is crucial. Data on physician-to-patient ratios is a key metric. The national average can serve as a benchmark. If Georgetown exhibits a lower-than-average ratio, it suggests a potential strain on resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time for individual patient care.

Researching the number of practicing PCPs within the 01833 ZIP code, as well as the surrounding areas, provides a more accurate picture. The data should consider the number of active, licensed physicians, not just those listed in directories. Furthermore, understanding the patient panel sizes of each practice is essential. Practices with a high volume of patients may struggle to provide the same level of individualized attention as those with smaller patient loads. This directly impacts the ability to offer comprehensive breast cancer screening, including regular mammograms and clinical breast exams.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices within Georgetown is crucial. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices that actively promote breast cancer awareness, offer convenient screening options, and have strong referral networks to specialists.

These practices often have dedicated staff focused on preventative care, including scheduling mammograms and educating patients about risk factors. They may also have a history of successfully diagnosing breast cancer at early stages, leading to better patient outcomes. Investigating the patient experience, including patient satisfaction surveys, can reveal valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Modern Approach**

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, offering new avenues for patient care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Georgetown is a critical aspect of this analysis. Examining the extent to which PCPs and specialists utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring is essential.

Telemedicine can enhance access to care by reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. It can also facilitate communication between patients and providers, allowing for quicker responses to concerns and improved adherence to treatment plans. Practices that have embraced telemedicine may be better positioned to provide comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Mental Health Resources: An Integral Component**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally challenging experiences. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. This analysis assesses the availability of mental health services within Georgetown and the surrounding areas.

Evaluating whether PCPs and specialists routinely screen patients for anxiety and depression, and whether they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, is important. The integration of mental health services can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological impact of breast cancer. This can include access to therapists, support groups, and other resources that help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of their diagnosis and treatment.

**Specific Considerations for Georgetown**

Georgetown's size and demographics influence its healthcare landscape. The town's population, age distribution, and socioeconomic factors must be considered when evaluating the availability and quality of breast cancer care. For example, a higher proportion of older residents may increase the demand for breast cancer screening and treatment.

Furthermore, the proximity of Georgetown to larger medical centers in Boston and other nearby cities can provide advantages. Patients may have access to specialized care, including advanced imaging technologies, surgical expertise, and clinical trials. However, the distance to these facilities can also pose challenges, such as increased travel time and costs.

**Conclusion**

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the breast cancer care landscape in Georgetown, MA. By assessing physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. Identifying standout practices and understanding the specific needs of the community are crucial for improving patient outcomes and ensuring access to high-quality breast cancer care.

**Call to Action**

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Georgetown, including a visual representation of physician locations, patient demographics, and access to care, explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide detailed insights into the healthcare resources available in the area, allowing you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.