02723, Fall River, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02723, Fall River, Massachusetts is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.61 percent of the residents in 02723 has some form of health insurance. 61.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.97 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 02723 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,727 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02723. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,210 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,032 health care providers accessible to residents in 02723, Fall River, Massachusetts.

The analysis below assesses the quality of breast cancer care and primary care availability within ZIP Code 02723, encompassing Fall River, Massachusetts. This evaluation considers factors crucial for patient well-being, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, enabling informed healthcare decisions for residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Fall River, the availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the early detection and management of breast cancer. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments, more personalized care, and improved opportunities for preventative screenings. Conversely, a lower ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to crucial treatments. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau is essential to accurately calculate these ratios. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the local physician workforce and population demographics. A thorough analysis would compare the physician-to-patient ratio in 02723 to state and national averages, highlighting any disparities and potential challenges.

Several medical practices in Fall River stand out in their approach to breast cancer care. These practices often integrate multidisciplinary teams, including primary care physicians, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and oncology nurses, to provide comprehensive care. They are likely to be affiliated with larger healthcare systems, providing access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as 3D mammography and MRI. Furthermore, these practices may offer genetic counseling and testing for patients with a family history of breast cancer, enabling proactive risk assessment and management. The quality of these practices can be evaluated through patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., by the American College of Surgeons), and participation in clinical trials. Identifying and promoting these standout practices is crucial for guiding patients toward the best possible care.

The adoption of telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved areas. In Fall River, telemedicine offers a significant advantage in breast cancer care by reducing travel burdens for patients, especially those undergoing treatment or follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of vital signs, and access to support groups. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow often report increased patient satisfaction and improved adherence to treatment plans. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires examining the availability of virtual appointment options, the types of services offered remotely, and the patient experience with these technologies.

Mental health resources play a vital role in the holistic care of breast cancer patients. The emotional and psychological toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant. Therefore, access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. Practices in Fall River that offer integrated mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing anxiety and depression should also be assessed. Examining the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in the area.

Primary care availability is directly linked to breast cancer outcomes. Regular primary care visits facilitate early detection through routine screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams. Primary care physicians can also provide essential support and guidance throughout the cancer journey. Evaluating primary care availability involves assessing the number of primary care physicians, their acceptance of new patients, and their ability to provide timely and comprehensive care. The presence of patient navigators who assist patients in navigating the healthcare system is also a positive indicator.

The overall quality of breast cancer care in Fall River is a multifaceted issue. It is determined by a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. While the analysis should focus on the factors mentioned, it is important to note that the quality of care is also influenced by broader socioeconomic factors, such as access to insurance, transportation, and affordable medications.

To improve the quality of breast cancer care in Fall River, several strategies can be implemented. These include recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, expanding access to mental health services, and supporting the development of multidisciplinary care teams. Public health initiatives, such as community outreach programs and educational campaigns, can also play a vital role in raising awareness about breast cancer and encouraging early detection.

The analysis of breast cancer care and primary care availability in Fall River is an ongoing process. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the best possible care. This analysis should be updated frequently to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to provide the most current information to patients and healthcare providers.

For a comprehensive visualization of healthcare resources in Fall River, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling informed decision-making and improving access to care.