01930, Gloucester, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01930, Gloucester, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.28 percent of the residents in 01930 has some form of health insurance. 43.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.77 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 01930 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,048 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01930. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,201 health care providers accessible to residents in 01930, Gloucester, Massachusetts.

The analysis focuses on Gloucester, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01930), examining the availability and quality of breast cancer care, with a particular emphasis on primary care physician accessibility and related resources. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive breast cancer care.

Gloucester, a coastal city, presents unique healthcare challenges. Its relative geographic isolation and aging population can strain healthcare resources. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for most patients, and their availability significantly impacts the timely detection and management of breast cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio in Gloucester is a critical metric. A lower ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Data from reliable sources, such as the Massachusetts Medical Society and the US Department of Health & Human Services, are essential to determine the exact ratio and compare it to state and national averages.

Standout practices in Gloucester, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that offer advanced screening technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis), and have established pathways for rapid referral to specialists, like oncologists and surgeons. These practices often have dedicated breast health centers or programs, coordinating care and providing patient education. The presence of certified breast health navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, is a significant indicator of a high-quality practice. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology, and a thorough assessment of the services offered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. Its adoption in Gloucester, specifically for breast cancer care, is an important consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for appointments. It can also be used for follow-up care, patient education, and support group meetings. The extent to which practices in Gloucester have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is a key factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

Mental health support is an integral component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, is essential for addressing anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The availability of these resources within primary care practices or through referrals to specialized mental health services is a critical aspect of a comprehensive care model. Assessing the integration of mental health support involves identifying practices that offer on-site counseling services or have established referral networks with mental health providers specializing in cancer care.

Primary care availability in Gloucester is not just about the number of physicians; it also encompasses the accessibility of care. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the availability of evening and weekend appointments. Practices that offer extended hours or have multilingual staff may be better equipped to serve a diverse patient population. Analyzing these factors requires gathering data from various sources, including practice websites, insurance directories, and patient surveys.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Gloucester must also consider the broader healthcare landscape. This includes the availability of specialized services, such as radiation therapy and surgical oncology, within a reasonable distance. The proximity of Gloucester to larger medical centers in the Boston area can be a significant advantage, providing access to advanced treatments and clinical trials. However, transportation challenges and the potential for increased healthcare costs must also be considered.

Overall, the assessment of breast cancer care in Gloucester requires a multifaceted approach. It involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, assessing the integration of mental health support, and analyzing primary care availability. This comprehensive analysis provides a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape and can inform efforts to improve access to quality breast cancer care in the community. The ability to visualize this data geographically can offer additional insights.

CartoChrome maps can be a powerful tool for visualizing the data gathered in this analysis. By mapping physician locations, practice locations, and the distribution of healthcare resources, CartoChrome can create an interactive and informative representation of the healthcare landscape in Gloucester. This visualization can highlight areas with limited access to care, identify potential gaps in services, and facilitate the development of targeted interventions to improve breast cancer care.

Ready to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of breast cancer care in Gloucester? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps and discover how geographic insights can transform healthcare analysis.