02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.32 percent of the residents in 02189 has some form of health insurance. 30.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.10 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 02189 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,006 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02189. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,873 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,914 health care providers accessible to residents in 02189, East Weymouth, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: East Weymouth (02189)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within the 02189 ZIP code, encompassing East Weymouth, Massachusetts. It evaluates the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the crucial foundation for early detection and ongoing support, alongside other key factors. The aim is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem and identifying areas for potential improvement.

The cornerstone of effective breast cancer care is early detection. This necessitates robust primary care, where regular screenings and referrals to specialists are initiated. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and diagnoses. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. Within 02189, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs needs to be meticulously examined. Data from state and national healthcare databases should be consulted to ascertain this ratio, comparing it to regional and national averages. If the ratio is concerningly high, it signals a potential bottleneck in access to care.

The availability of standout primary care practices significantly impacts the overall quality of breast cancer care. These practices are characterized by several key elements: a commitment to preventative care, including consistent breast cancer screenings; a patient-centered approach, fostering open communication and trust; and a well-coordinated referral network to specialists, including radiologists, oncologists, and surgeons. Identifying these standout practices requires a multi-pronged approach. Patient reviews, physician directories, and data on screening rates and patient outcomes can be analyzed to identify practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. Practices with robust electronic health record (EHR) systems are often better equipped to manage patient data, track screenings, and facilitate seamless communication between healthcare providers.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in breast cancer care, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. Within 02189, assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among PCPs and specialists is essential. This involves determining which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., medication management, symptom monitoring), and the ease of access to these services for patients. Practices with a strong telemedicine presence can significantly improve patient convenience, reduce travel burdens, and enhance access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or living in areas with limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound emotional and psychological impacts on patients, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services within 02189 is therefore a significant consideration. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, the availability of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices and oncology centers. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Beyond these core elements, other factors contribute to the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'. The proximity of specialized cancer centers and hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies is important. The availability of breast cancer support groups, educational programs, and patient navigation services also plays a crucial role in empowering patients and improving their quality of life. The affordability of healthcare services, including insurance coverage and financial assistance programs, must be considered to ensure equitable access to care for all residents of 02189.

The analysis should further investigate the utilization of patient navigators. These professionals guide patients through the complexities of the healthcare system, helping them schedule appointments, understand treatment options, and access financial assistance. Their presence can significantly improve patient outcomes, particularly for those facing challenges navigating the system. The analysis must also consider the diversity of the healthcare workforce. A diverse workforce can better address the unique needs of patients from different backgrounds and cultural groups, ensuring culturally competent care.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' should be a composite metric, incorporating all the aforementioned factors. Each factor should be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The final score should be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing for easy comparison across different practices and providers. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used, ensuring transparency and credibility. The analysis should also identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for enhancing breast cancer care within 02189.

The findings of this analysis are crucial for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Patients can use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare choices. Healthcare providers can use the analysis to identify areas where they can improve their services. Policymakers can use the data to allocate resources effectively and develop strategies to address gaps in care.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, access to care, and other relevant factors, explore the power of interactive mapping with CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and insightful way to visualize healthcare data, allowing you to explore the landscape of breast cancer care in East Weymouth (02189) and beyond.