02905, Providence, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02905, Providence, Rhode Island is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.54 percent of the residents in 02905 has some form of health insurance. 49.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.41 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 02905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,026 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02905. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,533 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,040 health care providers accessible to residents in 02905, Providence, Rhode Island.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Providence, RI (ZIP Code 02905)

This analysis delves into the landscape of breast cancer care within Providence, Rhode Island, specifically focusing on the 02905 ZIP code, and the broader context of primary care availability in the city. We aim to assess the quality and accessibility of services, culminating in a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the overall strength of the healthcare ecosystem in addressing this critical health concern. This score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive breast cancer care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care:**

A fundamental element of this assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and oncologists within the 02905 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, screenings, and follow-up care. While precise, real-time data on physician distribution is dynamic and often difficult to obtain at a granular ZIP code level, publicly available resources such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). The presence of HPSAs within or near 02905 would suggest potential access limitations. Furthermore, examining the concentration of specialists, particularly medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and breast surgeons, is essential. A well-distributed network of specialists, coupled with a strong referral system from primary care physicians, is vital for efficient and coordinated care.

**Standout Practices and Centers of Excellence:**

Identifying standout practices and centers of excellence is another critical aspect of the analysis. This involves researching hospitals and clinics within and around the 02905 ZIP code that have demonstrated excellence in breast cancer care. Key indicators of excellence include:

* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) or the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) signifies adherence to rigorous standards of care.
* **Specialized Services:** The availability of comprehensive services, including advanced imaging (mammography, MRI, ultrasound), surgical options (lumpectomy, mastectomy, reconstructive surgery), radiation therapy, medical oncology, and supportive care services (physical therapy, genetic counseling, survivorship programs).
* **Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials allows patients access to cutting-edge treatments and contributes to advancements in breast cancer research.
* **Patient Outcomes:** Examining publicly available data on patient outcomes, such as survival rates and complication rates, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys offer a valuable perspective on the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and overall satisfaction with care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in the context of breast cancer care. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients in underserved areas or those with mobility limitations. This analysis will assess the extent to which practices in and around 02905 have embraced telemedicine for:

* **Initial Consultations:** Virtual consultations for discussing symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Remote monitoring and follow-up appointments for patients undergoing treatment or surveillance.
* **Support Groups and Counseling:** Online support groups and individual counseling sessions for patients and their families.
* **Remote Monitoring:** The use of wearable devices and remote monitoring systems to track patient health and provide timely interventions.

The availability of telemedicine can significantly enhance access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources and supportive care services is a crucial component of comprehensive breast cancer care. This analysis will evaluate the availability of:

* **Psychological Counseling:** Access to licensed therapists and counselors specializing in oncology.
* **Support Groups:** Group therapy sessions for patients and their families to share experiences and provide mutual support.
* **Psychiatric Services:** Access to psychiatrists for medication management and treatment of mental health conditions.
* **Social Work Services:** Assistance with navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial resources, and addressing social and emotional challenges.
* **Integrative Therapies:** The availability of complementary therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, and meditation to manage side effects and improve quality of life.

The integration of mental health services into breast cancer care is essential for promoting overall well-being and improving patient outcomes.

**Primary Care Availability in Providence:**

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Providence, beyond the specific 02905 ZIP code, is a crucial factor. PCPs play a vital role in breast cancer prevention, early detection, and coordination of care. They are responsible for:

* **Screening:** Recommending and ordering mammograms and other screening tests.
* **Risk Assessment:** Assessing a patient's risk factors for breast cancer and providing appropriate counseling.
* **Referrals:** Referring patients to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
* **Coordination of Care:** Coordinating care between different specialists and ensuring patients receive comprehensive and integrated services.

A robust primary care system with readily accessible PCPs is essential for ensuring that women in Providence receive timely and appropriate breast cancer care.

**Breast Cancer Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis of the factors outlined above, a "Breast Cancer Score" will be assigned to the healthcare ecosystem within and surrounding the 02905 ZIP code. This score will reflect the overall quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care services. The score will be based on a weighted assessment of each factor, with higher weights assigned to factors deemed most critical for patient outcomes and well-being. The final score will provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Providence, RI, and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain actionable insights.**