The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02188, Weymouth, Massachusetts is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.50 percent of the residents in 02188 has some form of health insurance. 32.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.80 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 02188 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,561 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02188. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,181 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,154 health care providers accessible to residents in 02188, Weymouth, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 02188, Weymouth, Massachusetts
Prostate Cancer Score | 83 |
---|---|
People Score | 41 |
Provider Score | 92 |
Hospital Score | 52 |
Travel Score | 59 |
02188 | Weymouth | Massachusetts | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Weymouth, MA (ZIP Code 02188)
This analysis delves into the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within Weymouth, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02188), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and associated resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a Prostate Cancer Score assessment, considering factors relevant to early detection, diagnosis, and overall patient well-being. The analysis considers the landscape of medical practices, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in a comprehensive approach to prostate cancer management.
Weymouth, a suburban community south of Boston, presents a unique healthcare environment. The town's population demographics, including an aging population, necessitate a robust healthcare infrastructure, particularly concerning age-related illnesses like prostate cancer. This analysis will examine how well the local healthcare system caters to these needs.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
A foundational element of effective prostate cancer care is the accessibility of primary care physicians. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing symptoms or seeking routine screenings. The physician-to-patient ratio in Weymouth is a critical indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Researching the current ratio in 02188 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide insights into the number of practicing PCPs in the area and the population they serve.
Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs across Weymouth is significant. Are practices concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This geographical analysis is crucial for understanding equitable access. Additionally, the acceptance of new patients by local practices needs to be assessed. Practices that are consistently closed to new patients or have lengthy wait times can severely impact a patient's ability to receive timely care.
**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Practices that prioritize preventative care, including regular prostate cancer screenings (PSA tests, digital rectal exams), are highly valued. Practices that integrate patient education materials and actively engage in discussions about risk factors and lifestyle modifications are also critical.
The presence of board-certified urologists within or readily accessible to Weymouth practices is another significant consideration. Urologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. Close collaboration between PCPs and urologists streamlines the referral process, ensuring patients receive specialized care promptly. Practices with strong referral networks to reputable urology centers within the broader Boston area, such as Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center or Massachusetts General Hospital, are likely to offer a higher standard of care.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially in the context of prostate cancer care. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and even discuss test results remotely can significantly improve patient convenience and access, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.
The level of telemedicine adoption among Weymouth practices is a key component of the Prostate Cancer Score. Practices that offer telemedicine options, including video conferencing and secure messaging platforms, are likely to receive higher scores. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs, can also contribute to a more comprehensive approach to care.
**Mental Health Resources and Patient Well-being:**
A diagnosis of prostate cancer can have a profound impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges are common. The availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system is therefore a crucial aspect of the Prostate Cancer Score.
Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site counselors or referrals to mental health professionals, are highly desirable. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families, is also essential. Access to these resources can help patients cope with the emotional and psychological challenges associated with their diagnosis and treatment.
**Prostate Cancer Score Components and Weighting:**
The Prostate Cancer Score for Weymouth (02188) would be a composite score based on the following weighted components:
* **Primary Care Physician Availability (30%):** Physician-to-patient ratio, geographical distribution, new patient acceptance.
* **Preventative Care and Screening (25%):** Routine screening protocols, patient education initiatives, collaboration with urologists.
* **Telemedicine Adoption (20%):** Availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools.
* **Mental Health Resources (25%):** Access to mental health professionals, support groups.
Each component would be scored individually, and the weighted average would determine the overall Prostate Cancer Score. This score would provide a valuable snapshot of the quality and accessibility of prostate cancer care in Weymouth.
**Conclusion:**
The analysis of prostate cancer care in Weymouth, MA (ZIP Code 02188), reveals the need for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes access to primary care, preventative screenings, specialized urological care, telemedicine integration, and mental health support. While this analysis provides a framework for assessment, the specific scores and rankings would depend on detailed data collection and evaluation.
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