02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.16 percent of the residents in 02879 has some form of health insurance. 38.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.43 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 02879 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,269 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02879. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,108 health care providers accessible to residents in 02879, Wakefield, Rhode Island.

The analysis below assesses the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 02879 (Wakefield, Rhode Island) and evaluates the availability of primary care, considering factors that influence patient outcomes. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to inform healthcare decisions.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Wakefield, and the surrounding area, is a critical indicator of access to care. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health, and other public sources, can provide a baseline. However, simply looking at the raw numbers doesn't tell the whole story. The ratio of primary care physicians to the overall population needs to be considered, as this impacts the ability to secure timely appointments for preventative screenings, such as mammograms, and follow-up care. Furthermore, the ratio of specialists, specifically oncologists and radiologists, is vital for breast cancer treatment. A low ratio can translate to longer wait times for diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting survival rates. The geographic distribution of these specialists within the region also matters. If specialists are concentrated in urban areas, patients in Wakefield may face significant travel burdens.

Assessing standout practices requires a multifaceted approach. This involves evaluating factors beyond physician-to-patient ratios. The quality of care is a key consideration. This can be assessed through publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction surveys, and accreditation status from organizations like the American College of Radiology (ACR). Practices that have a strong focus on patient education, provide comprehensive breast cancer screening programs, and offer multidisciplinary care (involving surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and nurses) are likely to be considered superior. The integration of genetic counseling services, for patients with a family history of breast cancer, is also a sign of a comprehensive approach.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, and provide remote monitoring, can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Examining the extent to which primary care practices and specialist offices in Wakefield have embraced telemedicine is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the ease of use of the platforms, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that offer telemedicine options are likely to be more accessible and patient-centered.

The integration of mental health resources is a vital, often overlooked, aspect of breast cancer care. A diagnosis of breast cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and fear are common challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, are better equipped to support patients throughout their treatment journey. This includes assessing whether practices have on-site mental health professionals, or have established referral networks with mental health providers in the community. The availability of support groups, and educational resources on coping with the emotional challenges of breast cancer, is also a positive indicator.

The availability of primary care in Wakefield is a cornerstone of breast cancer prevention and early detection. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in promoting preventative care, including breast cancer screenings. The ease with which patients can access primary care, and the quality of the care they receive, directly impacts the likelihood of early detection and successful treatment. The analysis must consider the number of primary care physicians in the area, the appointment availability, and the insurance plans accepted. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and accept a wide range of insurance plans are likely to be more accessible to a broader population.

The impact of these factors on patient outcomes is significant. Early detection is a critical factor in breast cancer survival rates. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, are essential for identifying cancer in its early stages, when treatment is most effective. The availability of timely appointments for screenings, and follow-up care, is therefore crucial. The quality of care provided by specialists, including oncologists and radiologists, also has a direct impact on outcomes. The experience and expertise of the healthcare team, as well as the availability of advanced treatment options, can significantly influence the chances of survival and recovery.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population in Wakefield. Factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status can influence access to care and health outcomes. For example, women in underserved communities may face barriers to accessing screening and treatment, due to factors such as lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, and cultural differences. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring equitable access to breast cancer care.

In conclusion, assessing the breast cancer care landscape in Wakefield, Rhode Island, requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of primary care. By considering these factors, it is possible to gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, and identify areas for improvement. This analysis should inform patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, to improve breast cancer care in the community.

For a visual representation of the data, and to explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize the availability of primary care, specialist locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for making informed healthcare decisions.