01984, Wenham, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 01984, Wenham, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.06 percent of the residents in 01984 has some form of health insurance. 21.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.58 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 01984 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,116 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01984. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 700 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,299 health care providers accessible to residents in 01984, Wenham, Massachusetts.

This analysis focuses on assessing the landscape of breast cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 01984, encompassing the town of Wenham, Massachusetts. We will explore the factors contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score," considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This evaluation aims to provide residents with a nuanced understanding of their local healthcare options.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio of physicians per capita generally suggests better access to care, including preventative screenings and timely diagnosis. In Wenham (01984), the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key metric. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with population estimates from the US Census Bureau, allows for calculating this ratio. However, data limitations may exist, and the actual ratio may fluctuate. This ratio impacts the ability to schedule appointments, receive timely referrals, and maintain consistent care with a trusted physician.

The availability of specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists, is also crucial. While Wenham itself may not have a large concentration of these specialists, proximity to larger hospitals and medical centers in surrounding areas, such as Beverly Hospital or Salem Hospital, becomes a significant factor. Travel time, transportation options, and the ability to navigate the referral process influence the patient experience. The "Breast Cancer Score" must consider the ease of access to these vital specialists.

Standout practices in the area will be evaluated based on several criteria. These include the quality of care as reflected in patient reviews (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals), accreditations (e.g., by the American College of Radiology for imaging services), and the adoption of evidence-based practices. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer comprehensive screening programs, and provide clear patient education will likely score higher. Practices with a strong focus on patient communication and a supportive environment will also be favored.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. The use of telehealth has surged, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and offers significant advantages for breast cancer care. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, potentially reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms, offer online patient portals, and provide virtual educational resources will receive a more favorable assessment. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas.

Mental health resources are an integral part of comprehensive breast cancer care. The emotional toll of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks for mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, will be viewed more favorably. Integration of mental health services into the overall care plan improves patient outcomes and quality of life. The “Breast Cancer Score” should reflect the availability and accessibility of these vital resources.

Primary care availability in Wenham is also a key consideration. The "Breast Cancer Score" is not solely focused on oncology services; it also considers the foundation of care provided by PCPs. The presence of accessible primary care is critical for early detection, preventative care, and overall health management. The availability of PCPs who are knowledgeable about breast cancer risk factors, screening guidelines, and the importance of timely referrals is essential.

The quality of primary care practices in Wenham will be assessed. This includes the availability of same-day appointments, the efficiency of the appointment scheduling process, and the patient-centeredness of the care provided. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer comprehensive preventative care, and are well-integrated with local specialists will be highly regarded. This assessment will consider factors like wait times, patient satisfaction scores, and the availability of after-hours care.

The integration of technology in primary care is also important. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs), offer online patient portals, and provide access to patient education materials will be considered more favorably. These technologies improve efficiency, enhance communication, and empower patients to take an active role in their health.

The assessment of the "Breast Cancer Score" will also consider the availability of support services. This includes access to patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complex healthcare system; financial assistance programs, which can help with the cost of care; and support groups, which can provide emotional support and a sense of community. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience and overall outcomes.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Wenham (01984) will be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It's important to recognize that this score is a snapshot in time and may change as healthcare practices evolve. The analysis will strive to provide a balanced assessment, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in Wenham and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare resources, assess accessibility, and make informed decisions about your healthcare.