02466, Auburndale, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02466, Auburndale, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.64 percent of the residents in 02466 has some form of health insurance. 24.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.68 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 02466 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,297 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02466. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,335 health care providers accessible to residents in 02466, Auburndale, Massachusetts.

The analysis that follows assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within the 02466 ZIP code, encompassing the Auburndale area, with a particular focus on the availability and quality of primary care services. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The initial assessment centers on the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified geographic area. This metric provides a fundamental understanding of the potential access to care. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized attention. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility and the possibility of more comprehensive care. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the US Department of Health & Human Services, should be consulted to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 02466. This data would be further segmented to focus on primary care physicians (PCPs) and, where possible, on those specializing in women's health, who are often the first point of contact for breast cancer concerns.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, physician credentials, and the services offered. Online platforms such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including ratings on communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Furthermore, the credentials of the physicians, including their board certifications and areas of specialization, should be examined. Practices that employ a multidisciplinary approach, offering services such as radiology, oncology, and surgery under one roof, often streamline the patient experience and improve care coordination. The presence of certified breast centers, accredited by organizations like the American College of Radiology, is a strong indicator of a practice's commitment to high-quality breast cancer care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in the context of breast cancer. It offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, reduced travel burdens for patients, and the potential for improved follow-up care. The adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices in 02466 is a critical factor in this assessment. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing treatment, providing them with easier access to their physicians and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

The psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is profound. Mental health resources are essential for supporting patients throughout their journey. The analysis must evaluate the availability of these resources within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes assessing whether practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan is crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with breast cancer. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and access to palliative care services also contributes to a more holistic approach to patient well-being.

Evaluating primary care availability in Auburndale involves assessing the geographical distribution of PCPs within the 02466 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This analysis considers factors such as the proximity of practices to residential areas, the availability of transportation options, and the ability of practices to accommodate patients with varying needs, including those with mobility issues or limited English proficiency. The accessibility of primary care is a critical determinant of early detection and timely intervention, both of which are crucial for improving breast cancer outcomes.

A further consideration is the integration of technology and data analytics to enhance the quality of care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can improve communication, care coordination, and patient engagement. The use of data analytics to track patient outcomes, identify areas for improvement, and personalize treatment plans can also lead to better results. The adoption of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) for image analysis and genomics for personalized medicine, can further enhance the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment.

The analysis should also consider the involvement of primary care physicians in breast cancer screening and prevention. This includes assessing their adherence to screening guidelines, their use of risk assessment tools, and their ability to educate patients about breast cancer risk factors and prevention strategies. The proactive involvement of PCPs in early detection and prevention is crucial for improving breast cancer outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Auburndale (02466) requires a multi-faceted approach that considers physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the accessibility of primary care. A comprehensive evaluation must also encompass the integration of technology, the involvement of primary care physicians in screening and prevention, and the overall patient experience. A detailed analysis, leveraging publicly available data and patient reviews, will provide a more nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area.

To visualize the geographical distribution of primary care physicians, the location of standout practices, and the availability of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you understand the landscape of breast cancer care in Auburndale.