02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.19 percent of the residents in 02543 has some form of health insurance. 61.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.55 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 02543 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 27 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02543. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 543 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 668 health care providers accessible to residents in 02543, Woods Hole, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Woods Hole, MA (ZIP Code 02543)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of breast cancer care within the Woods Hole, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02543) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, and related resources. This is not a formal medical evaluation, but an overview based on publicly available data and industry best practices. The goal is to provide a general understanding of the healthcare landscape as it relates to breast cancer detection and support.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and comprehensive primary care. PCPs are crucial for preventative screenings, early detection, and referrals to specialists. In Woods Hole, the small population size presents both challenges and opportunities. The primary challenge is likely the limited number of PCPs physically located within the ZIP code. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for patients. The opportunity lies in the potential for strong, personalized relationships between patients and their doctors, which can improve health outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of access. While specific data for Woods Hole is difficult to obtain due to its small size, it's reasonable to assume the ratio is higher (fewer physicians per capita) than in more populated areas. This highlights the importance of examining the broader healthcare ecosystem, including practices in neighboring towns like Falmouth and Bourne, which are likely to be the primary source of care for Woods Hole residents.

Standout practices in the surrounding area, particularly those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, should be evaluated for their breast cancer screening and diagnostic capabilities. These practices should be assessed on their adherence to national guidelines for mammography, their use of advanced imaging technologies (e.g., 3D mammography), and their commitment to patient education. Practices that offer comprehensive care, including genetic counseling for high-risk patients and access to breast surgeons and oncologists, would score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Given the potential for geographical limitations, telemedicine can bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to patients undergoing treatment. The availability of telemedicine services can significantly improve the patient experience, reducing the burden of travel and allowing for more frequent communication with healthcare providers.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's emotional well-being. Practices that offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. These resources can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Primary care availability in Woods Hole is largely dependent on the broader healthcare infrastructure of the surrounding communities. This means the quality and accessibility of care are influenced by the resources available in Falmouth, Bourne, and potentially further afield. Analyzing the referral patterns from local PCPs is crucial. Do they consistently refer to high-quality specialists? Do they offer assistance with navigating the healthcare system? These factors contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for the area.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Woods Hole, therefore, hinges on a combination of factors. It's not just about the number of PCPs, but also about the quality of their practices, their integration of technology, their commitment to mental health support, and their ability to connect patients with the specialized care they need. The reliance on practices outside of the immediate ZIP code necessitates a thorough assessment of the broader healthcare network.

A comprehensive analysis should also consider the availability of patient navigators, who can assist patients in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, from scheduling appointments to understanding insurance coverage. Patient navigators are invaluable resources, particularly for patients facing a cancer diagnosis.

Furthermore, the presence of support groups and community resources, such as the American Cancer Society or local breast cancer support organizations, can significantly enhance the patient experience. These resources provide emotional support, education, and practical assistance to patients and their families.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Woods Hole would likely be moderate, given the small population size and the reliance on healthcare resources outside of the ZIP code. However, the score could be significantly improved by focusing on strengthening the connections between local PCPs and high-quality specialists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources and patient support services. Regular monitoring of the healthcare landscape, including changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and the availability of support services, is essential to maintaining and improving the "Breast Cancer Score" over time.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Woods Hole and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and gain valuable insights.