01746, Holliston, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 01746, Holliston, Massachusetts is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.34 percent of the residents in 01746 has some form of health insurance. 23.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.03 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 01746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,568 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01746. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,327 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,098 health care providers accessible to residents in 01746, Holliston, Massachusetts.

Prostate cancer risk assessment and access to quality primary care are critical components of men's health, particularly within a community. Analyzing the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 01746, encompassing Holliston, Massachusetts, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, focusing on their ability to facilitate prostate cancer screening and early detection, and then extend to the broader healthcare environment, including telemedicine adoption and mental health support.

The foundation of prostate cancer screening lies within the primary care physician's office. The physician acts as the first point of contact, providing education, ordering necessary tests like the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, and making referrals to specialists if needed. A robust primary care network is essential for ensuring men receive timely and appropriate care.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Holliston is a starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the general availability of primary care physicians within the ZIP code and surrounding areas needs evaluation. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially strain resources and limit the time a physician can dedicate to each patient, including preventative care discussions and screening recommendations. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau can provide insights into physician density.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and characteristics of the primary care practices in Holliston are important. Are there any standout practices known for their commitment to preventative care and early cancer detection? This could involve looking at patient reviews, physician credentials, and whether the practices actively promote prostate cancer screening guidelines. Do they offer comprehensive wellness programs that include men's health initiatives? Some practices may have specialized expertise or a particular focus on geriatric care, which is relevant given the increased risk of prostate cancer with age.

Telemedicine is changing the landscape of healthcare delivery, and its adoption within Holliston's primary care practices is a key factor. Telemedicine offers several benefits, including increased accessibility, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. It can facilitate initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of patients. The availability of telemedicine can be particularly useful for discussing PSA test results, providing education about prostate cancer, and making referrals to urologists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be more responsive to patient needs and offer a more convenient healthcare experience.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked aspect of prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of cancer, and the treatment that follows, can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the Holliston healthcare ecosystem is crucial. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as support groups specifically for men dealing with cancer. Primary care physicians should be able to identify patients who may need mental health support and make appropriate referrals.

The presence of a strong referral network is another important consideration. Primary care physicians in Holliston should have established relationships with urologists, oncologists, and other specialists who can provide expert care for prostate cancer. This network should be efficient and responsive, ensuring that patients receive timely consultations and treatments if needed. Proximity to hospitals and cancer centers in the surrounding areas, such as those in Boston or Worcester, is also a factor.

To assess the healthcare landscape, consider the availability of resources for patient education. Do primary care practices provide educational materials about prostate cancer, its risk factors, and screening guidelines? Are there online resources or patient portals that offer information and support? A well-informed patient is better equipped to make informed decisions about their health.

The overall patient experience is also critical. This includes factors such as wait times for appointments, the ease of scheduling, the responsiveness of the office staff, and the overall quality of communication. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction are likely to provide a better healthcare experience.

Finally, consider the integration of technology. Are practices using electronic health records (EHRs) to manage patient information? Do they offer online portals where patients can access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments? Technology can improve efficiency and enhance the patient experience.

In conclusion, evaluating the prostate cancer score for doctors in ZIP Code 01746 and primary care availability in Holliston requires a comprehensive assessment. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of the referral network. The goal is to identify areas of strength and weakness within the healthcare system and ensure that men in Holliston have access to the best possible care for prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

For a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Holliston, including the location of primary care practices, specialist offices, and hospitals, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility in your community.