02852, North Kingstown, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02852, North Kingstown, Rhode Island is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.85 percent of the residents in 02852 has some form of health insurance. 34.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.48 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 02852 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02852. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,895 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 02852, North Kingstown, Rhode Island.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: North Kingstown, RI (ZIP Code 02852)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within North Kingstown, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02852), focusing on primary care physician accessibility, specialist referrals, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support for patients. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape. This evaluation considers the entire patient journey, from initial screening to post-treatment care.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the crucial entry point into the healthcare system for most individuals. Their role in breast cancer detection is paramount. Early detection through regular screenings, such as mammograms, significantly improves survival rates. The physician-to-patient ratio within North Kingstown, and specifically within the 02852 ZIP code, is a critical factor in this assessment. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less time dedicated to each patient. Publicly available data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, when cross-referenced with physician directories, can provide an estimate of this ratio. This data is essential to the score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is also important. Does the practice proactively remind patients of their recommended screening schedules? Do they have established protocols for referring patients with suspicious findings to specialists? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and streamlined referral processes will score higher. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists is another positive indicator.

Referral pathways to specialists are another key component. The proximity to specialized breast cancer centers and oncologists is a significant advantage. The availability of comprehensive breast cancer centers within a reasonable driving distance is crucial. This includes access to surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and reconstructive surgeons. The presence of these specialists within the immediate area or in nearby cities like Providence or Newport will positively impact the score. The efficiency of the referral process, including how quickly patients can see a specialist after a concerning finding, is also a critical factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in the context of breast cancer care. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased access to specialists, particularly for follow-up appointments, and the ability to receive second opinions remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring will receive a higher score. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources further enhances the telemedicine component.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can have profound psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, who specialize in oncology or women's health is crucial. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have strong referral networks to mental health providers will score higher. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, further enhances the mental health component.

Standout practices within the 02852 ZIP code and surrounding areas will be identified based on the criteria outlined above. Practices that demonstrate excellence in multiple areas, such as high physician-to-patient ratios, proactive screening reminders, efficient referral processes, telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health support, will be highlighted. This includes practices that have received awards, have high patient satisfaction ratings, or have been recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care. The analysis will investigate patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the overall patient experience.

The score is not just about the presence of resources; it's about the quality and accessibility of those resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare system that prioritizes early detection, efficient treatment, and comprehensive support for breast cancer patients. Conversely, a lower score indicates areas where improvements are needed, such as addressing physician shortages, improving referral processes, or expanding access to mental health services.

The analysis will also consider the availability of resources for underserved populations. This includes assessing whether practices accept a variety of insurance plans, offer financial assistance programs, and provide culturally competent care. Addressing health disparities is a crucial aspect of ensuring equitable access to quality breast cancer care.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. This score will provide a snapshot of the healthcare landscape within North Kingstown, RI (02852) and will highlight areas of strength and areas that need improvement. This score can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to allocate resources effectively.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape. While this analysis can provide a general overview, it cannot replace the need for individual patients to consult with their physicians and conduct their own research to make informed decisions about their care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the proximity to cancer centers, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify the resources that are most accessible to you.