02912, Providence, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02912, Providence, Rhode Island is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.37 percent of the residents in 02912 has some form of health insurance. 5.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 92.14 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 02912 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02912. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,147 health care providers accessible to residents in 02912, Providence, Rhode Island.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Providence, RI (ZIP Code 02912) & Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the breast cancer care landscape within ZIP code 02912 (Providence, Rhode Island) and its surrounding primary care environment. The goal is to assess the availability and quality of care, focusing on factors impacting early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care system.

Providence, Rhode Island, a city with a rich history and a diverse population, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Understanding the specific needs of residents in 02912, a key area within Providence, is paramount to providing effective breast cancer care. This analysis aims to identify strengths and weaknesses, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes.

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

A critical factor influencing breast cancer care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly oncologists and radiologists. Access to timely screenings, diagnostic tests, and consultations is directly impacted by physician-to-patient ratios. In the 02912 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care, along with the availability of specialists, needs careful evaluation. Data from state and national databases, such as the Rhode Island Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), are essential to determine the current status. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer outcomes.

Furthermore, the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas matters. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This geographical analysis is crucial to identifying potential healthcare deserts and ensuring equitable access to care for all residents. Examining the availability of bilingual physicians and those familiar with culturally sensitive care is also essential, given the diverse population of Providence.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying and evaluating standout practices within and around 02912 is vital. These practices often serve as models for best practices in breast cancer care. This includes evaluating the quality of care provided by hospitals and clinics. Criteria for evaluation include the availability of advanced imaging technologies (mammography, ultrasound, MRI), the expertise of radiologists and oncologists, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols.

Accreditation by organizations such as the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) can serve as indicators of quality. These accreditations demonstrate a commitment to meeting rigorous standards for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Examining patient satisfaction scores, as reported by organizations like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provides valuable insights into the patient experience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in underserved areas. Its adoption in breast cancer care can significantly improve patient outcomes. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, and access to educational resources.

Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among practices in 02912 and the surrounding areas is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of telehealth platforms, the training of physicians in telemedicine technologies, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers. Barriers to telemedicine adoption, such as lack of internet access or digital literacy among patients, must also be addressed.

**Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care:**

Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a profound impact on patients' mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health resources and supportive care services is a critical component of a comprehensive breast cancer care system. This includes access to therapists, support groups, and patient navigators who can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and guidance throughout the treatment journey.

Evaluating the availability of these resources within 02912 and the surrounding areas is essential. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals specializing in cancer care, the availability of support groups tailored to different patient populations (e.g., newly diagnosed, survivors), and the integration of mental health services into the overall care plan. Collaboration between oncologists, mental health professionals, and patient navigators is crucial to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive support they need.

**Primary Care Availability in Providence:**

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in a strong primary care system. PCPs play a vital role in early detection through regular screenings and referrals to specialists. Assessing the availability of primary care in Providence is critical. This includes evaluating the number of PCPs per capita, the accessibility of primary care clinics, and the ability of PCPs to provide preventive care services, such as mammogram referrals.

Furthermore, the integration of primary care and specialty care is essential. Effective communication and coordination between PCPs and specialists ensure that patients receive seamless and coordinated care. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to share patient information and the establishment of referral pathways.

**Conclusion:**

The breast cancer care landscape in Providence, RI (ZIP Code 02912) and the surrounding areas requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying and supporting standout practices, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources are all critical to improving patient outcomes. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement. By focusing on these key areas, we can work towards a healthcare system that provides high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered breast cancer care for all residents of Providence.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Providence, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can offer valuable insights into the geographic distribution of resources and help identify areas where improvements are needed.