02777, Swansea, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.04 percent of the residents in 02777 has some form of health insurance. 32.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.82 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 02777 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,166 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02777. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,525 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,214 health care providers accessible to residents in 02777, Swansea, Massachusetts.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Swansea, MA (02777)

This analysis provides a nuanced understanding of breast cancer care within the Swansea, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02777) area, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and supportive resources. The goal is to assess the local landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This analysis considers both the presence of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on the overall quality of care.

Swansea, a town in Bristol County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger cities like Providence, Rhode Island, and Fall River, Massachusetts, influences access to specialists and advanced medical facilities. However, the availability of readily accessible primary care is crucial as the first point of contact for patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, an assessment of the area's demographics and the number of practicing PCPs is essential. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater ease of access. Data from state and national sources, such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Department of Health and Human Services, are needed to calculate this ratio accurately for the specific ZIP code. This data will then be compared to regional and national averages to gauge relative performance.

Primary care availability directly impacts breast cancer detection and early intervention. PCPs are often the first to perform breast exams and recommend mammograms. The presence of a robust network of PCPs who are knowledgeable about breast cancer screening guidelines, including age-appropriate recommendations and risk factor assessment, is critical. This includes understanding the importance of family history and other individual risk factors.

Standout practices in Swansea would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care. This includes practices that: offer same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns; employ certified nurse practitioners or physician assistants to expand patient access; maintain strong referral networks to specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists; actively participate in community outreach programs to promote breast cancer awareness and screening; and provide patient education materials in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of the local population.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments, prescription refills, and initial consultations, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering secure and user-friendly platforms, are likely to score higher in terms of patient convenience and access.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can be emotionally devastating, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to counseling services, support groups, or referrals to mental health professionals are better equipped to support their patients throughout their cancer journey. This includes offering resources for coping with the side effects of treatment, such as fatigue, nausea, and hair loss. The availability of these resources is a key component in a holistic approach to care.

The analysis also considers the availability of diagnostic imaging services, such as mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, within the area. The proximity of these services to primary care practices and the timeliness of appointment scheduling are essential for timely diagnosis. Practices that offer on-site imaging services or have strong partnerships with local imaging centers are better positioned to provide efficient and coordinated care.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and financial assistance programs, which can help patients manage the costs of treatment. Practices that offer these services demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a recognition of the financial and emotional burdens that cancer can impose.

The overall ‘Breast Cancer Score’ for Swansea (02777) will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and provide a valuable tool for patients seeking information about breast cancer care in the area. The final score will be based on a weighted average of the factors, with greater weight given to factors that are most critical for patient outcomes.

The availability of primary care physicians in Swansea is a key factor influencing the score. The number of PCPs, their willingness to provide early detection services, and their ability to refer patients to specialists are all important considerations. The quality of care provided by these physicians is also a factor.

The analysis will also consider the availability of specialists, such as oncologists and surgeons, in the area. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices, and the timeliness of appointments, are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Finally, the analysis will consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and financial assistance programs. These services can help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and manage the costs of treatment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Swansea, including the locations of physicians, hospitals, and support services, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize healthcare data and make informed decisions about your health.