02472, Watertown, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02472, Watertown, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.55 percent of the residents in 02472 has some form of health insurance. 30.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.81 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 02472 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,347 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02472. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,994 health care providers accessible to residents in 02472, Watertown, Massachusetts.

The analysis below provides an overview of breast cancer care resources and primary care availability within Watertown, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02472), focusing on physician accessibility, practice characteristics, and support services. This assessment aims to offer a snapshot of the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Watertown, understanding this ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists involved in breast cancer care (e.g., oncologists, radiologists, surgeons) is essential. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are dynamic and constantly changing, a general assessment can be made by analyzing publicly available data from sources such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, the US Census Bureau, and healthcare data aggregators. These sources offer insights into the number of practicing physicians within the 02472 ZIP code and the estimated population. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access. However, this must be considered alongside factors like appointment availability and wait times, which can significantly impact the patient experience.

Watertown’s healthcare landscape includes a mix of independent practices, affiliations with larger hospital systems (such as Massachusetts General Hospital or Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center), and potentially, urgent care facilities. These affiliations can significantly influence the quality and breadth of care. Practices connected to major medical centers often have access to advanced technologies, research opportunities, and a wider range of specialists. Standout practices within Watertown might be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes offering advanced imaging services (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), experienced surgical teams, and access to clinical trials. Patient reviews, online ratings, and accreditations from organizations like the American College of Radiology can provide valuable insights into a practice's reputation and quality of care.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for preventative care and follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, those living in geographically remote areas, or those seeking consultations for preliminary concerns. Practices in Watertown that embrace telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring, may offer a significant advantage in terms of convenience and accessibility. The availability of telehealth appointments, the ease of scheduling, and the quality of the virtual consultation experience are all critical factors to consider.

Breast cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for patient well-being. Watertown's healthcare providers should ideally collaborate with mental health specialists, offering integrated care models that address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health professionals specializing in oncology, and support groups facilitated by trained professionals.

Primary care availability in Watertown is a key factor in overall healthcare access. PCPs play a vital role in preventative care, early detection of breast cancer risk factors, and referrals to specialists. The number of PCPs practicing in the area, their appointment availability, and their acceptance of different insurance plans are all important considerations. A strong primary care network ensures that patients have a readily accessible point of entry into the healthcare system, facilitating timely screenings and early intervention.

Evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in Watertown requires a multi-faceted approach. It is not solely based on physician-to-patient ratios. It must also consider the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options, the integration of mental health services, and the adoption of telemedicine. Patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the affiliations of local practices can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

A comprehensive analysis of healthcare resources in Watertown requires continuous monitoring and updates. Data on physician availability, practice characteristics, and support services is constantly evolving. It is important to consult multiple sources, including healthcare provider websites, patient reviews, and public health reports, to obtain the most up-to-date information.

The healthcare landscape in Watertown is dynamic, and the availability of resources can vary. Access to specialists, advanced technologies, and supportive services can significantly impact the patient experience and outcomes. Understanding the local healthcare environment is crucial for individuals seeking breast cancer care or primary care services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Watertown, including physician locations, practice affiliations, and accessibility factors, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and informative view of the healthcare resources available in the area.