02858, Oakland, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02858, Oakland, Rhode Island is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02858 has some form of health insurance. 28.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 95.18 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 02858 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 62 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02858. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 77 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,389 health care providers accessible to residents in 02858, Oakland, Rhode Island.

This analysis assesses the quality of breast cancer care within ZIP code 02858, focusing on the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Oakland, Rhode Island. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement in the context of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. The analysis considers factors crucial to patient outcomes, including access to care, physician expertise, and the integration of supportive services.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care rests on a robust primary care system. In Oakland, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, negatively impacting patient outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio, indicating greater accessibility, allows for earlier detection through routine screenings and timely referrals to specialists. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 02858 requires data analysis, but it is a fundamental element in evaluating the overall quality of care. This ratio should be compared against state and national averages to gauge Oakland's performance.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code matters. Are physicians clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Are there sufficient options for patients with various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? Addressing these questions is crucial for ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Oakland.

Standout practices in the area can significantly impact the quality of breast cancer care. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to early detection, patient education, and coordinated care. They may implement robust screening programs, including mammography and clinical breast exams, and actively promote breast cancer awareness within the community. They may also have established relationships with local oncologists, surgeons, and support groups, facilitating seamless referrals and a multidisciplinary approach to patient management. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient testimonials, examining practice profiles, and assessing their adherence to established clinical guidelines for breast cancer screening and treatment.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly enhance access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. In the context of breast cancer care, telemedicine can be utilized for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health counseling. The extent to which practices in 02858 have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient-centered care and their ability to adapt to evolving healthcare technologies. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual consultations, the types of services offered remotely, and the patient experience with telemedicine platforms.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of breast cancer care. A breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, can significantly improve patients' quality of life and their ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of treatment. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, evaluating their expertise in oncology-related issues, and assessing their integration with primary care practices and cancer treatment centers. The presence of support groups specifically for breast cancer patients is also an important factor.

The coordination of care is essential for optimal patient outcomes. This involves seamless communication between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and implement care coordination programs are better equipped to manage patients' complex needs. The level of care coordination can be assessed by examining the use of EHRs, the existence of care management protocols, and the frequency of communication between healthcare providers. This integration ensures that all members of the care team are informed about the patient's condition and treatment plan.

Patient education is another critical aspect of breast cancer care. Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition, treatment options, and potential side effects is essential for informed decision-making and improved adherence to treatment plans. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education materials, offer educational workshops, and encourage patient participation in their care are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. Assessing patient education involves examining the availability of educational resources, the frequency of patient-physician communication, and the extent to which patients are actively involved in their care.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of breast cancer care in 02858 requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By examining these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oakland and identify areas for improvement. This assessment is not a definitive ranking but rather a starting point for a deeper investigation.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 02858, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize healthcare data and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.