02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.30 percent of the residents in 02860 has some form of health insurance. 46.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.91 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 02860 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,557 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02860. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,521 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,520 health care providers accessible to residents in 02860, Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Pawtucket, RI (ZIP Code 02860)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of breast cancer care within Pawtucket, Rhode Island (ZIP Code 02860), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible and proactive primary care. In Pawtucket, the availability of PCPs is a crucial factor. Assessing the density of PCPs per capita is the first step. This involves analyzing the total number of PCPs practicing within the 02860 ZIP code and comparing it to the population of Pawtucket. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone is insufficient. The analysis must also consider the types of PCPs available – are they internal medicine specialists, family practitioners, or both? This diversification is crucial for comprehensive care.

The analysis would need to investigate the patient-to-physician ratio at the local level. Data on the average number of patients per PCP in the area is essential. This figure provides a clearer picture of the potential wait times and the capacity of the system. Furthermore, it is necessary to examine the insurance acceptance rates of these practices. Are they accepting a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance options? Limited insurance acceptance can significantly restrict access to care for certain populations.

Identifying standout practices within Pawtucket requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating patient reviews, examining the practices' commitment to preventative care (e.g., mammogram screenings), and assessing their integration of technology. Practices that consistently receive positive patient feedback, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and proactively manage patient health are likely to be considered 'standout'. A review of practice websites and public health data would reveal the availability of breast cancer screening programs and educational resources.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of this analysis. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use is vital for providing accessible care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are better equipped to serve their patients. The analysis would assess the extent of telemedicine adoption among local PCPs, including the types of services offered remotely (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication refills, and initial consultations).

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally taxing, and the availability of mental health support is crucial. The analysis needs to determine the extent to which local practices integrate mental health services. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? Are there on-site counselors or therapists? Do they offer resources for managing anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges associated with cancer?

Furthermore, the analysis should explore the availability of support groups and community resources. Are there local chapters of organizations like the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen? Are there support groups specifically for breast cancer survivors and their families? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the patient experience and promote overall well-being.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of Pawtucket. The prevalence of breast cancer can vary across different demographic groups, and healthcare providers must be sensitive to these differences. Understanding the specific needs of the local population is crucial for delivering equitable care. This involves assessing the cultural competency of local practices and ensuring that they offer services in multiple languages, if necessary.

The analysis must also assess the proximity of local practices to major hospitals and cancer centers. Easy access to specialized care, such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, is essential for comprehensive breast cancer treatment. The analysis should map the location of local PCPs in relation to these specialized facilities.

The analysis should also investigate the availability of patient navigators. Patient navigators are healthcare professionals who help patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. They can assist with scheduling appointments, understanding treatment options, and accessing financial assistance. The presence of patient navigators can significantly improve the patient experience and reduce barriers to care.

Another factor to consider is the integration of technology to improve patient care. Are local practices using electronic health records (EHRs) that are interoperable with other healthcare providers? Do they offer online portals for patients to access their medical records and communicate with their providers? The use of technology can improve communication, coordination of care, and patient engagement.

The analysis should also assess the practices' commitment to patient education. Do they provide patients with educational materials about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment? Do they offer classes or workshops on topics such as healthy eating, exercise, and stress management? Patient education is crucial for empowering patients to take an active role in their own care.

Finally, the analysis should include a review of the practices' commitment to quality improvement. Do they regularly monitor their performance and identify areas for improvement? Do they participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those sponsored by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)? A commitment to quality improvement is essential for ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis for Pawtucket, RI (02860) requires a detailed assessment of multiple factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, and the availability of community support. By carefully examining these elements, a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare landscape can be created, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. This information can be used to inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, ultimately leading to better breast cancer care in Pawtucket.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Pawtucket, explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**. Visualize the physician density, practice locations, and proximity to specialized care facilities, providing a spatial understanding of the breast cancer care landscape.