02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.08 percent of the residents in 02896 has some form of health insurance. 27.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.79 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 02896 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,356 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02896. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,210 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,680 health care providers accessible to residents in 02896, North Smithfield, Rhode Island.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: North Smithfield (02896) Physicians and Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within the 02896 ZIP code, encompassing North Smithfield, Rhode Island. It aims to assess the quality and accessibility of care, focusing on primary care physicians and their ability to support early detection and ongoing management. The analysis will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in a comprehensive breast cancer care strategy.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in strong primary care. These physicians are the initial point of contact, responsible for patient education, risk assessment, and the crucial task of early detection through screening recommendations. A robust primary care system, therefore, is the cornerstone of a successful breast cancer prevention and treatment strategy.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in North Smithfield provides a crucial understanding of access to care. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health, combined with information from insurance providers and local hospital networks, is vital for determining this ratio. Further, an analysis of the acceptance of new patients by local practices is essential. Are practices open to accepting new patients, or are they at capacity? This directly impacts the ability of residents to establish care with a primary care physician, which is the first step in the breast cancer care continuum.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. These practices may distinguish themselves through several factors. Do they actively participate in breast cancer screening programs, providing reminders and facilitating appointments? Do they utilize electronic health records to track patient risk factors and screening histories? Are they affiliated with larger hospital systems that offer specialized breast cancer services, such as diagnostic imaging and surgical oncology? Practices demonstrating a commitment to these elements are likely to be considered high-performing in breast cancer care. Furthermore, the availability of multilingual staff and culturally sensitive care can significantly improve access for diverse patient populations.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment. Evaluating the extent to which primary care physicians in North Smithfield have embraced telemedicine is critical. Are they offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups or discussing screening results? Do they have the technological infrastructure and staff training to support these services effectively? The availability of telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve patient convenience, and potentially lead to earlier detection and intervention.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally challenging experiences. The availability of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive care. Primary care physicians should be equipped to screen for mental health concerns and provide referrals to qualified therapists, counselors, and support groups. Assessing the availability of these resources in North Smithfield is essential. Are there local mental health professionals specializing in oncology support? Are support groups available for patients and their families? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

**Specific Considerations for North Smithfield:**

North Smithfield, being a suburban community, may have unique characteristics that influence the breast cancer care landscape. The proximity to larger urban centers, such as Providence, could affect the availability of specialized services. Patients may have access to a wider range of specialists and treatment options, but this also introduces the need for effective coordination of care between primary care physicians and specialists. Transportation options within the town and to nearby medical facilities are also a factor. Limited public transportation could create barriers to accessing appointments and treatments.

**Data Sources and Methodology:**

This analysis relies on a combination of data sources. Publicly available information from the Rhode Island Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) will be utilized. Information from local hospital networks, insurance providers, and physician directories will also be incorporated. Furthermore, patient satisfaction surveys and reviews, where available, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The methodology involves collecting and analyzing data across these sources to create a comprehensive picture of the breast cancer care environment in North Smithfield.

**Overall Assessment:**

The overall assessment of breast cancer care in North Smithfield will be based on the collective performance across the key indicators. The analysis will identify strengths and weaknesses in the system, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. This includes assessing physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The final assessment will provide a score reflecting the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care in the community.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Understanding the landscape of breast cancer care in North Smithfield is essential for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. This analysis provides a starting point for assessing the current situation and identifying areas for improvement. To further explore the specifics of physician locations, access to care, and potential gaps in services, we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive mapping capabilities allow you to visualize the data, identify geographic patterns, and gain a deeper understanding of the breast cancer care environment in North Smithfield and beyond. Explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps today.