02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.17 percent of the residents in 02917 has some form of health insurance. 25.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 02917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02917. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,231 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,595 health care providers accessible to residents in 02917, Smithfield, Rhode Island.

The following analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 02917 (Smithfield, Rhode Island) and assesses the availability of primary care, crucial for early detection and ongoing support. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights for residents seeking optimal care.

Smithfield, Rhode Island, presents a unique demographic profile that influences its healthcare needs. The population density, age distribution, and socioeconomic factors all play a role in shaping the demand for medical services, particularly in areas like breast cancer screening and treatment. Understanding these nuances is essential when evaluating the quality and accessibility of care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial screenings and consultations. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 02917 requires accessing publicly available data from state health departments or national organizations like the American Medical Association. This data should then be compared to the national average to determine if Smithfield is underserved or has adequate physician coverage.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of preventative healthcare. Regular check-ups, screenings, and early detection efforts are all facilitated by a strong primary care infrastructure. The availability of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants within the area is a key factor. The presence of multiple primary care practices, especially those accepting new patients, is a positive sign. Examining the types of services offered by these practices, including mammogram referrals and patient education programs, is also important.

Identifying standout practices involves assessing their reputation, patient reviews, and the range of services they provide. Practices with a strong emphasis on breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment should be prioritized. Look for practices that employ board-certified specialists, offer advanced imaging technologies, and participate in clinical trials. The availability of patient navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of cancer care, is another valuable asset.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and providing support to patients. Practices that offer telehealth services can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or who live in remote areas. Evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of patient portals for communication is crucial.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of breast cancer care. The emotional and psychological toll of a diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be significant. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and access to psychiatric care, are highly desirable. Evaluating the availability of these resources within the community, including partnerships with mental health professionals, is important.

Specific practices within 02917 should be researched individually. This includes assessing their websites, reading patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services. Questions to ask include: Do they offer digital mammography? Do they have a dedicated breast cancer specialist? Do they offer genetic counseling? What are their wait times for appointments?

The proximity of hospitals and specialized cancer centers is also a factor. While 02917 may have its own primary care practices, access to comprehensive cancer centers, such as those affiliated with major hospitals in the broader region, is vital for advanced treatment options and specialized care. Assessing the ease of access to these centers, including transportation options, is crucial.

The availability of support groups and community resources is another important consideration. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and local breast cancer support groups provide invaluable support to patients and their families. Researching the presence of these resources within the community, including their meeting schedules and the types of support they offer, is essential.

The cost of care is a significant factor for many patients. Researching the insurance plans accepted by local practices and hospitals, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs, is essential. The transparency of pricing and the availability of payment plans are also important considerations.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for doctors in 02917 and primary care availability in Smithfield would be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. This score would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of breast cancer care within the area. It would be a dynamic score, subject to change as healthcare providers evolve and new resources become available.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in 02917. However, the specific details and individual practice assessments require further research. The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

To visualize and better understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of primary care practices, cancer centers, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with greater access to care and pinpoint the resources closest to you.