01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.07 percent of the residents in 01945 has some form of health insurance. 28.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.09 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 01945 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,953 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01945. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,170 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,429 health care providers accessible to residents in 01945, Marblehead, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Marblehead, MA (ZIP Code 01945)

This analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of breast cancer care within Marblehead, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01945), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on early detection and treatment. The goal is to provide a “Breast Cancer Score” based on various factors, offering insights for residents seeking optimal healthcare. The analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a well-rounded breast cancer care system.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for routine screenings, patient education, and timely referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Analyzing the ratio within Marblehead, and comparing it to regional and national averages, provides a baseline understanding of access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to determine these ratios.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes factors like the utilization of evidence-based guidelines for breast cancer screening (e.g., mammograms), the promptness of referrals to specialists (e.g., radiologists, oncologists, surgeons), and the overall patient-centered approach of the practice. Practices employing robust electronic health record (EHR) systems, which facilitate seamless information sharing and patient tracking, often demonstrate superior care coordination. Practices that consistently prioritize preventative care and patient education, including self-exam techniques and risk factor awareness, contribute significantly to early detection and improved outcomes.

Standout practices in Marblehead would be those that excel in these areas. Identifying these practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Analyzing practice websites for information on screening protocols, specialist partnerships, and patient education materials is also essential. Furthermore, investigating whether practices participate in quality improvement initiatives or are recognized for excellence in patient care can further distinguish them.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in the context of breast cancer care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including convenient follow-up appointments, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to specialist consultations for patients who may have difficulty traveling. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Marblehead is crucial. This involves determining the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into the practice's workflow. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, reduce patient burden, and enhance communication between patients and providers.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is significant. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. This includes access to therapists, counselors, support groups, and other mental health services. Assessing the availability of these resources in Marblehead involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, and determining the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Marblehead, MA (01945) would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. This score would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care in the area. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The analysis would also need to account for any disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status, race, or other demographic factors. Ensuring equitable access to high-quality breast cancer care for all residents of Marblehead is a crucial consideration. This involves identifying and addressing any barriers to care, such as transportation issues, language barriers, or lack of insurance coverage.

Finally, the analysis would provide recommendations for improvement. This might include suggestions for increasing the number of PCPs in the area, encouraging practices to adopt telemedicine, promoting the integration of mental health services, and improving patient education and awareness. The ultimate goal is to empower residents of Marblehead with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to advocate for improved breast cancer care in their community.

This analysis aims to provide a snapshot of the breast cancer care landscape in Marblehead. The information gathered can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of care for all residents. The findings will be dynamic and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, patient demographics, and resource availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for interactive visualizations that can enhance understanding and facilitate data-driven decision-making.