02631, Brewster, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.82 percent of the residents in 02631 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.64 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 02631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,486 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02631. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 803 health care providers accessible to residents in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts.

The assessment of breast cancer care within Brewster, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02631), requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the medical expertise available but also the broader healthcare ecosystem supporting patients. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all factors critical to a patient's journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The foundation of good breast cancer care rests on robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact, guiding patients through screenings, referrals, and overall health management. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Brewster is paramount. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, as patients struggle to secure timely appointments for mammograms and other necessary tests. Examining the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code is crucial. The national average ratio provides a benchmark; a higher ratio in Brewster suggests a potential strain on the system, impacting access and potentially influencing the quality of care. This analysis will consider the total number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population to derive a preliminary ratio.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care also matters. Are the PCPs in Brewster well-versed in breast cancer screening guidelines? Do they actively encourage and facilitate timely mammograms for eligible patients? Do they have established relationships with local specialists, ensuring seamless referrals when necessary? These factors contribute to the overall effectiveness of the primary care system in supporting breast cancer prevention and early detection.

The presence of specialist care within or near Brewster is another crucial consideration. The availability of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists directly impacts the speed and quality of treatment. Examining the proximity of specialized cancer centers and the accessibility of these specialists to patients in Brewster is essential. Travel time, appointment availability, and the overall patient experience at these facilities contribute significantly to the overall quality of care. Furthermore, the integration of these specialists with the local primary care network is vital. Clear communication channels and collaborative care models ensure that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive treatment.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for rural communities like Brewster. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups. Assessing the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine is important. Are virtual consultations readily available? Are patients able to receive remote monitoring and support? The successful implementation of telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients, especially those facing mobility challenges or residing far from major medical centers.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis is profound. Mental health resources are therefore a crucial component of comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology or have experience working with cancer patients is vital. Do local practices offer integrated mental health services? Are there support groups available in the community? The integration of mental health support into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes, addressing the emotional distress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.

Identifying standout practices within Brewster requires evaluating several key criteria. These include the quality of their medical staff, their commitment to patient-centered care, their adoption of innovative technologies, and their overall reputation within the community. Examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's adherence to established breast cancer treatment guidelines, and evaluating their participation in clinical trials are all important aspects of this assessment. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive support services deserve recognition.

The physician-to-patient ratio, as mentioned earlier, is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Analyzing the number of physicians specializing in breast cancer care (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists) relative to the population of Brewster will provide a more specific understanding of specialist availability. A favorable ratio indicates a higher likelihood of timely access to specialists, while a less favorable ratio may necessitate patients seeking care outside the immediate area, potentially impacting their treatment journey. This analysis will compare the local ratio to regional and national averages to provide context.

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in Brewster is not just about the presence of medical expertise; it’s about the interconnectedness of the healthcare system. A well-coordinated system, with strong primary care, accessible specialist care, the adoption of telemedicine, and integrated mental health resources, is essential for providing the best possible outcomes for patients. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these factors, painting a picture of the current state of breast cancer care in Brewster.

The data and analysis presented here provide a snapshot of breast cancer care in Brewster. For a more detailed and interactive understanding of healthcare access, physician locations, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities allow for a dynamic visualization of healthcare resources, providing valuable insights into the landscape of care in your community.