02026, Dedham, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02026, Dedham, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.15 percent of the residents in 02026 has some form of health insurance. 30.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.46 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 02026 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,842 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02026. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,649 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,886 health care providers accessible to residents in 02026, Dedham, Massachusetts.

Breast cancer care in Dedham, Massachusetts, a town nestled within ZIP code 02026, demands a multifaceted analysis. This assessment delves into the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and the resources available to address the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their care.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on strong primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, crucial for preventative screenings, early detection, and referral to specialists. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Dedham is therefore paramount. This involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. A higher ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau can be analyzed to determine the precise ratio within the 02026 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data provides a baseline understanding of the PCP landscape.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs is critical. Are practices concentrated in certain areas of Dedham, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of town? Are there sufficient practices that accept various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, to ensure equitable access for all residents? This requires a granular analysis of practice locations, insurance acceptance policies, and patient demographics.

Standout practices within Dedham deserve recognition. These practices may demonstrate exceptional patient care, innovative approaches to screening and diagnosis, or a commitment to patient education and support. Identifying these practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Data on screening rates, follow-up care, and patient outcomes can also be analyzed, where available, to assess the quality of care. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as breast cancer awareness events, further demonstrate a commitment to the health of the community.

The integration of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, particularly in the realm of cancer care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, reduced travel time for patients, and improved convenience. Examining the adoption of telemedicine by PCPs and specialists in Dedham is essential. Do practices offer virtual consultations for initial screenings, follow-up appointments, or consultations with specialists? Are there telehealth platforms that facilitate communication between patients and their care teams? The availability of telemedicine can be a significant factor in improving access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in more remote areas of the town.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment often have profound impacts on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common among patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis must assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Dedham and the surrounding areas. Do PCPs and specialists offer integrated mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health providers? Are there support groups or other resources available for patients and their families? Access to mental health support is vital for promoting patient well-being and improving treatment outcomes.

The assessment of breast cancer care in Dedham also necessitates an evaluation of the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the proximity of local hospitals and cancer centers. The availability of advanced diagnostic imaging, such as mammography and MRI, is crucial for early detection. The presence of specialized breast cancer treatment centers, offering services such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, is also essential. Furthermore, the availability of supportive care services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional counseling, can significantly improve the quality of life for patients.

The analysis should also consider the role of patient navigators. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, providing support, education, and advocacy. The availability of patient navigators can be particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients, who often face a multitude of appointments, treatments, and emotional challenges.

Finally, the analysis must consider the role of community resources. This includes the availability of breast cancer awareness programs, educational materials, and support groups. Community organizations can play a vital role in providing support and resources to patients and their families.

In conclusion, assessing breast cancer care in Dedham, MA (ZIP code 02026) is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care access, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of community support. By analyzing these factors, we can gain a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Dedham, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.