02561, Sagamore, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02561, Sagamore, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.66 percent of the residents in 02561 has some form of health insurance. 36.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.98 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 02561 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 441 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02561. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 110 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 961 health care providers accessible to residents in 02561, Sagamore, Massachusetts.

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are complex, demanding a multifaceted approach that incorporates early detection, skilled medical professionals, and readily available support systems. Evaluating the quality of care within a specific geographic area requires a nuanced understanding of resource availability and the practices of local healthcare providers. This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care for physicians in ZIP Code 02561 and the availability of primary care services in Sagamore, Massachusetts, aiming to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

ZIP Code 02561, encompassing the town of Sandwich, Massachusetts, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Its relative isolation, coupled with an aging population, necessitates a careful examination of healthcare access and quality. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio of patients per physician can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and a decreased ability for physicians to dedicate sufficient time to each patient. Data on this ratio, ideally broken down by specialty (e.g., primary care, oncology, radiology), is essential for understanding the overall accessibility of care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau can be leveraged, alongside private healthcare databases, to paint a clearer picture of this crucial metric.

Standout practices within 02561 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes not only the expertise of oncologists and surgeons but also the availability of support services like oncology nurses, patient navigators, and social workers. The presence of a dedicated breast cancer center, offering a multidisciplinary approach with coordinated care from diagnosis to survivorship, is a significant advantage. These centers often facilitate access to clinical trials, offering patients the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research. The integration of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and breast MRI, is another key indicator of quality, enabling earlier and more accurate detection.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in areas with geographical limitations. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations. Practices that embrace telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The ability to access medical records electronically and communicate with healthcare providers securely through online portals also contributes to a better patient experience.

Mental health resources are an integral part of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological impact of a diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be profound. Practices that offer or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in oncology, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, both in-person and virtual, provide valuable peer support and a sense of community. Addressing the mental health needs of patients is crucial for improving their overall well-being and treatment outcomes.

Primary care availability in Sagamore, a village within the town of Bourne, Massachusetts, is another vital component of the breast cancer care landscape. Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in early detection through regular screenings and referrals to specialists. The availability of PCPs, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the quality of their preventative care services directly impact the likelihood of early diagnosis and successful treatment. The presence of a robust primary care network, including access to same-day or urgent care appointments, is essential for ensuring timely access to care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 02561 and Sagamore would be a composite metric, reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of dedicated breast cancer centers, the adoption of advanced imaging technologies, the availability of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health resources. The score would also factor in the accessibility and quality of primary care services in Sagamore. The score should be dynamic, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio in 02561 reveals potential challenges. The aging population and the geographical limitations may contribute to a lower ratio, potentially impacting access to care. However, the presence of a well-regarded community hospital, offering a range of specialized services, mitigates some of these concerns. The hospital's commitment to advanced imaging technologies and its integration of telemedicine platforms further enhance the overall quality of care.

Standout practices in 02561 are those that prioritize patient-centered care. These practices often have dedicated patient navigators who guide patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, further enhances the patient experience. These practices also actively participate in clinical trials, offering patients access to cutting-edge research and innovative treatment options.

Telemedicine adoption is growing in 02561, particularly among primary care practices. This allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. However, the availability of telemedicine services among specialists, such as oncologists, is still limited. Expanding telemedicine capabilities would further enhance access to care and improve the patient experience.

Mental health resources are available in 02561, but there is room for improvement. While some practices have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, others lack these connections. Increasing the integration of mental health services into breast cancer care would improve patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Primary care availability in Sagamore appears to be adequate, with several practices offering comprehensive services. However, the ease of scheduling appointments and the availability of same-day or urgent care services could be improved. Strengthening the primary care network would enhance early detection and improve access to care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 02561 and Sagamore would be a valuable tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It would provide a clear and concise assessment of the quality of breast cancer care in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This information can be used to inform healthcare decisions, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02561 and Sagamore, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven maps that can reveal valuable insights into physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of support services. This visual representation can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and advocate for improved access to care in your community.