07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.81 percent of the residents in 07720 has some form of health insurance. 44.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.26 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 07720 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 641 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07720. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,055 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,378 health care providers accessible to residents in 07720, Bradley Beach, New Jersey.

The analysis below provides a comprehensive overview of breast cancer care accessibility and quality within Bradley Beach, New Jersey (ZIP code 07720), focusing on primary care physicians and related resources. This is not a definitive ranking but rather an assessment of the available landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests upon a strong primary care network. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals are critical. In Bradley Beach, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians is the first step. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally suggests greater accessibility and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the New Jersey Department of Health can be used to estimate population size and compare it to the number of practicing primary care physicians in the area. This comparison provides a snapshot of potential access challenges or advantages.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have established protocols for breast cancer screening, including mammogram referrals and follow-up procedures? Practices that proactively manage patient health, including preventative care, often demonstrate a higher commitment to early detection.

Standout practices are those that go above and beyond standard care. This might include practices that have a dedicated nurse navigator to guide patients through the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. A nurse navigator can assist with scheduling appointments, coordinating care among specialists (oncologists, surgeons, radiologists), and providing emotional support. Some practices may also offer on-site mammography services, streamlining the screening process and improving convenience for patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or to discuss test results, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and may be better positioned to serve a wider range of patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Primary care practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, or offer in-house counseling services, are better equipped to support patients through their emotional journey. This support can range from providing referrals to therapists to offering support groups or educational resources.

The availability of these resources can be assessed by examining practice websites, calling practices directly to inquire about services, and consulting online reviews from patients. Hospitals and specialty clinics in the surrounding area also play a role in breast cancer care. Their proximity and the services they offer, such as surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, are essential considerations. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center, with multidisciplinary teams of specialists, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Evaluating the network of specialists is also crucial. The presence of board-certified oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists in the area is a strong indicator of quality care. Access to these specialists, and the speed with which patients can be referred to them, is another important metric. Practices that have established referral pathways and strong relationships with specialists can ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as physical therapy, nutritional counseling, and genetic counseling, can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being. These services are often crucial for recovery and can help patients manage the side effects of treatment.

The analysis of breast cancer care in Bradley Beach should also consider the demographics of the population. Are there specific cultural or linguistic needs that must be addressed? Practices that offer services in multiple languages or that have staff members who are culturally sensitive to the needs of diverse patient populations are better positioned to provide equitable care.

Another key aspect of the evaluation is the patient experience. What do patients say about their care? Online reviews, patient testimonials, and surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices. Are patients satisfied with the communication from their doctors? Do they feel supported throughout their treatment journey? Are their concerns addressed in a timely and compassionate manner?

Ultimately, assessing the availability and quality of breast cancer care in Bradley Beach requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the network of specialists and support services. It also necessitates consideration of the patient experience and the cultural and linguistic needs of the population.

This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in Bradley Beach, New Jersey. The information can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of physician locations, hospital proximities, and access to specialized care, consider exploring the power of geographic data. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the data discussed above. This will enable you to gain a clearer understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bradley Beach and its surrounding areas.