08724, Brick, New Jersey Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 08724, Brick, New Jersey is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.68 percent of the residents in 08724 has some form of health insurance. 31.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.54 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 08724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,912 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08724. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,772 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,442 health care providers accessible to residents in 08724, Brick, New Jersey.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 08724 and Primary Care in Brick, NJ

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 08724, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services in Brick, New Jersey. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a patient-centered approach to breast cancer care. The ultimate goal is to understand the accessibility and quality of care for individuals in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care begins with robust primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a vital role in early detection, screening recommendations, and overall health management. In Brick, understanding the PCP landscape is therefore paramount. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and follow-up care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ins and proactive health management. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be used to estimate these ratios, but direct observation of appointment availability and patient reviews offers a more nuanced perspective.

Within ZIP code 08724, the availability of primary care is further impacted by the concentration of practices. Are the practices evenly distributed throughout the area, or are there underserved pockets where access is more challenging? Analyzing the geographic distribution of practices, alongside their patient volume, provides insights into potential disparities in care access. Furthermore, the size and structure of these practices matter. Larger, multi-specialty practices may offer a wider range of services, including on-site mammography and other diagnostic tools, streamlining the patient journey. Solo practices or smaller groups might offer a more personalized experience but could have limited resources.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall quality of care. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, particularly regarding the responsiveness of staff, the clarity of explanations, and the empathy of the physicians, are likely to be highly regarded within the community. In addition, examining the practice's commitment to preventative care, such as the frequency with which they recommend mammograms and other screenings, is essential. Practices that actively promote preventative measures and provide comprehensive care demonstrate a commitment to early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor influencing access to care, especially in a geographically dispersed area. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can significantly reduce travel time and improve convenience, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and discussing test results. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure video conferencing and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and flexibility. The availability of telemedicine is especially crucial for patients undergoing treatment or facing mobility challenges. However, it's important to assess the quality of the telemedicine experience, including the ease of use, the technical reliability of the platform, and the physician's ability to effectively communicate and connect with patients virtually.

The mental health component of breast cancer care is often overlooked, yet it is undeniably crucial. A diagnosis of breast cancer can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and fear. Access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is therefore essential for patients to navigate the emotional challenges of their diagnosis and treatment. Evaluating the availability of these resources in Brick involves assessing whether primary care practices offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to qualified mental health professionals. Additionally, the presence of support groups and other community resources, such as those offered by the American Cancer Society or local hospitals, can significantly enhance the patient's support network.

The analysis of breast cancer care in ZIP code 08724 and Brick, NJ, is a complex undertaking, requiring a multi-faceted approach. By carefully examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating standout practices based on patient reviews and preventative care practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the care landscape. This analysis provides a valuable framework for patients seeking care, healthcare providers aiming to improve their services, and community organizations working to enhance the health and well-being of residents in Brick and surrounding areas.

The findings of this analysis can be visualized and further explored using advanced mapping tools.