The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02575, West Tisbury, Massachusetts is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.18 percent of the residents in 02575 has some form of health insurance. 40.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.43 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 02575 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 428 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02575. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 736 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 02575, West Tisbury, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 02575, West Tisbury, Massachusetts
Prostate Cancer Score | 90 |
---|---|
People Score | 79 |
Provider Score | 76 |
Hospital Score | 70 |
Travel Score | 37 |
02575 | West Tisbury | 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: West Tisbury, MA (ZIP Code 02575)**
This analysis examines the landscape of prostate cancer care within the West Tisbury, MA (ZIP code 02575) area, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability, quality of care indicators, and access to resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare environment for men in this community, particularly concerning prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. The analysis considers factors that influence a patient's ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support.
West Tisbury, a small town on Martha's Vineyard, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its relative isolation and the seasonal influx of residents and visitors can significantly impact healthcare access and resource availability. Assessing the quality of care in such a setting requires careful consideration of these contextual factors.
**Primary Care Physician Availability in West Tisbury**
The cornerstone of prostate cancer care often begins with a strong primary care relationship. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for patients, providing preventative care, screening recommendations, and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and shorter wait times for appointments. However, this is only one factor. In West Tisbury, the limited number of full-time residents might skew the physician-to-patient ratio, making it appear more favorable than it actually is. Seasonal population fluctuations can dramatically alter this dynamic. The availability of PCPs, including those accepting new patients, is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. Investigating the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, and the capacity of their practices to accommodate new patients, is essential.
**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**
Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors beyond simple physician availability. This includes the adoption of evidence-based practices for prostate cancer screening and management. Does the practice offer routine PSA testing, digital rectal exams, and risk assessments? Are physicians knowledgeable about the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)? Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as patient satisfaction surveys and outcome tracking, demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. The availability of on-site diagnostic equipment, such as ultrasound or biopsy capabilities, can also streamline the diagnostic process and improve patient convenience. The presence of specialized nurses or physician assistants trained in urology or oncology can further enhance the quality of care. Practices that foster strong relationships with specialists in urology and oncology, located both on and off-island, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for healthcare delivery, particularly in geographically isolated areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance communication between patients and providers. In the context of prostate cancer care, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring of patients. Assessing the extent to which PCPs in West Tisbury utilize telemedicine platforms is crucial. Are virtual visits offered for routine check-ups, medication management, and discussing test results? Does the practice have secure communication channels for patients to contact their physicians and access medical information? The availability of telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live far from medical facilities.
**Mental Health Resources and Support**
A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common among men with prostate cancer. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Are mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers, readily accessible in the community? Does the local healthcare system offer support groups or counseling services specifically for men with prostate cancer? The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The ability of PCPs to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals is also essential.
**Specific Considerations for West Tisbury**
Given West Tisbury's unique characteristics, several factors warrant specific consideration. The seasonal nature of the population can create fluctuations in healthcare demand. The availability of healthcare providers may vary throughout the year. The ability of local practices to accommodate both year-round residents and seasonal visitors is a critical factor. The proximity of the Martha's Vineyard Hospital is a significant asset, providing access to a range of medical services. The hospital's capabilities, including its urology and oncology departments, are a vital component of the local healthcare ecosystem. The availability of transportation options, particularly for patients who may have mobility issues or who live outside of the town center, is also important.
**Conclusion: A Call to Action**
Understanding the healthcare landscape for prostate cancer in West Tisbury requires a comprehensive assessment of the factors discussed above. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed investigation is needed to fully evaluate the quality of care and access to resources. For a more visual and interactive exploration of healthcare data in West Tisbury and surrounding areas, we invite you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, including healthcare resources, physician locations, and population demographics. By using CartoChrome, you can gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and make informed decisions about your health.
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