01907, Swampscott, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01907, Swampscott, Massachusetts is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.54 percent of the residents in 01907 has some form of health insurance. 31.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.42 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 01907 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,208 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01907. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,681 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,216 health care providers accessible to residents in 01907, Swampscott, Massachusetts.

The following analysis evaluates the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP Code 01907 (Swampscott, Massachusetts) and assesses primary care availability, focusing on factors relevant to a patient's experience. This score aims to provide a nuanced understanding, moving beyond simple rankings to encompass the complexities of healthcare access and quality.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Swampscott, like many suburban areas, likely experiences fluctuations in this ratio depending on the specific specialty. For primary care physicians (PCPs), the ratio can be a good indicator of appointment availability and the time a patient might have with their doctor. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, could lead to longer wait times and potentially less personalized care. Data from the Massachusetts Medical Society and the American Medical Association would be essential in calculating this ratio accurately for 01907. Publicly available data from these sources, combined with local hospital affiliations (such as Salem Hospital, which serves the North Shore), can provide a reasonable estimate.

Regarding breast cancer specifically, the availability of oncologists, radiologists specializing in mammography, and surgeons specializing in breast procedures is crucial. The proximity to larger hospitals, such as Salem Hospital or Boston-based facilities, plays a significant role. Patients in Swampscott likely benefit from access to specialists within a reasonable driving distance. The presence of accredited breast centers, offering comprehensive services including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support, is a strong indicator of quality.

Standout practices within the area would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes factors such as clear communication, a supportive environment, and a focus on preventative measures. Practices that actively participate in breast cancer screening programs, adhere to established guidelines, and offer patient navigators to guide individuals through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment would be highly regarded. Patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, staff interactions, and the overall feeling of the practice.

Telemedicine adoption is another important consideration. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, consultations, and mental health support. Practices that offer telehealth options for breast cancer screening education, post-operative care, and supportive counseling demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of virtual consultations with specialists, particularly for patients in remote areas, can be a significant advantage.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to support patients through their journey. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, can also provide invaluable peer support and a sense of community.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a multi-faceted approach. Publicly available information, such as practice websites and online directories, can provide initial insights. However, a deeper dive is needed to determine the quality and accessibility of these services. This involves contacting practices directly, reviewing patient testimonials, and consulting with local advocacy groups.

The presence of patient navigators is another key factor in assessing the quality of care. Patient navigators act as guides, helping patients navigate the healthcare system, schedule appointments, understand treatment options, and access support services. Practices that employ patient navigators demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, is also worth noting. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless communication between providers and improved care coordination, are often better equipped to provide high-quality care. Patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers, are also a valuable asset.

The assessment also considers the availability of financial assistance programs. Breast cancer treatment can be expensive, and access to financial resources can be a significant barrier to care for some patients. Practices that are knowledgeable about and can help patients access financial assistance programs, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or the National Breast Cancer Foundation, demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need.

Ultimately, a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' for physicians in ZIP Code 01907 would reflect a combination of these factors. The score would not only consider the availability of specialists and resources but also the patient experience, the integration of technology, and the commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care. This includes the practice's commitment to preventative measures, such as promoting mammography screening and providing education on breast cancer risk factors.

The availability of support services, such as physical therapy for post-operative rehabilitation and nutritional counseling, is also important. These services can help patients recover from treatment and improve their overall quality of life. The score would also consider the practice's commitment to research and innovation, such as participation in clinical trials and the use of advanced treatment modalities.

The final score would be a dynamic measure, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. It would be based on a combination of quantitative data, such as physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of resources, and qualitative data, such as patient reviews and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

To explore the healthcare landscape of Swampscott (01907) and surrounding areas visually, and to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, hospital affiliations, and potential resource availability, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare providers and the accessibility of resources, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare.