02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.20 percent of the residents in 02746 has some form of health insurance. 72.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.65 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 02746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,951 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,060 health care providers accessible to residents in 02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts.

The complexities of breast cancer care within a defined geographic area require a multifaceted analysis. This assessment will focus on the availability and quality of breast cancer services for residents of ZIP Code 02746 (Fairhaven, Massachusetts) and the broader context of primary care availability in New Bedford, Massachusetts. This analysis will consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape.

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to appointment delays, reduced access to preventative screenings, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and national databases like the American Medical Association (AMA) provide insights into the number of primary care physicians, oncologists, and radiologists practicing within ZIP Code 02746 and the surrounding New Bedford area. This data must be compared to the population size to determine the ratio. Further, the specific number of breast cancer specialists, including surgeons and medical oncologists, needs to be assessed. A concerningly low ratio could necessitate residents seeking care outside the immediate area, adding to the burden of travel and potential disruption of continuity of care.

The identification of standout practices is crucial. These are medical facilities and physician groups that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This assessment involves evaluating several factors. Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) for breast centers is a strong indicator of quality, signifying adherence to rigorous standards of care. Reviewing patient testimonials, available through online platforms, provides valuable insights into patient experiences, including satisfaction with communication, treatment effectiveness, and overall care. Examining the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, is essential, as these technologies improve early detection. The presence of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and support staff, indicates a collaborative approach to care, leading to better outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of telehealth services for breast cancer patients can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those living in rural areas or facing mobility challenges. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations with oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists is critical. The ability to receive remote monitoring of symptoms and side effects, and access to online educational resources, can also enhance the patient experience. The level of telemedicine adoption within practices in ZIP Code 02746 and the broader New Bedford area should be assessed. This includes the technological infrastructure, such as secure video conferencing platforms and patient portals, and the training provided to physicians and staff to effectively utilize these technologies.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Assessing the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is essential. This includes evaluating whether practices have on-site mental health professionals or partnerships with local mental health providers. The availability of resources specifically tailored to breast cancer patients, such as support groups facilitated by oncology social workers or therapists, is particularly valuable. The integration of mental health screening into routine care and the proactive addressing of patients' emotional needs can significantly improve their overall well-being and quality of life.

Primary care availability in New Bedford has a direct impact on breast cancer care. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a vital role in screening, early detection, and referrals to specialists. A shortage of primary care physicians can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to preventative care. Analyzing the primary care physician-to-patient ratio in New Bedford is crucial. This involves examining the number of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors and internists, practicing in the area and comparing it to the population size. Additionally, assessing the availability of same-day appointments, extended hours, and weekend services can provide insights into the accessibility of primary care. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers can also be assessed, as they often serve a significant portion of the population and provide essential primary care services.

In conclusion, the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP Code 02746 and the surrounding New Bedford area presents a complex picture. The analysis requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Understanding these factors is critical for assessing the accessibility, quality, and overall effectiveness of breast cancer care in the region. Further, the availability of primary care services in New Bedford significantly influences the overall health of the community and the timely detection of breast cancer.

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you analyze spatial patterns and identify areas of need within the community.