02638, Dennis, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 02638 has some form of health insurance. 46.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.50 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 02638 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02638. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 760 health care providers accessible to residents in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts.

**Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02638)**

This analysis examines the landscape of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 02638 (Dennis, Massachusetts), focusing on physician availability, primary care access, and related resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, considering factors crucial for patient well-being and early detection. This is not a definitive ranking but an assessment of the current state of affairs.

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests on a robust primary care network. Early detection through regular screenings and prompt referrals is vital. In Dennis, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of practicing physicians relative to the population. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau are essential to determine this ratio.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Factors to consider include the acceptance of new patients, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments for urgent concerns, and the provision of comprehensive services, including routine check-ups and screenings. Practices that emphasize preventative care, including prostate cancer screening recommendations, are particularly valuable. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a crucial element. EHRs facilitate seamless communication between primary care physicians and specialists, ensuring efficient information exchange and coordinated care.

Several practices within Dennis may stand out in their approach to primary care and prostate cancer screening. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing online patient reviews, assessing practice websites for information on services offered, and potentially conducting interviews with patients and healthcare professionals. Practices that actively promote preventative care, offer extended hours, or have a strong track record of patient satisfaction are likely to be highly regarded.

The evolution of healthcare includes the growing role of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telehealth appointments can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up visits, and even some types of specialist care. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Dennis is a crucial factor. Practices that embrace telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and potentially facilitate earlier detection of prostate cancer through virtual consultations.

Mental health support is an often-overlooked aspect of cancer care, but it is undeniably important. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health resources within the Dennis healthcare system is therefore an important consideration. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as support groups specifically for cancer patients. Primary care practices that screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate services are particularly valuable.

Specialist care, particularly urology, is crucial for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The availability of urologists in or near Dennis is a key factor. The proximity of specialists can significantly impact the speed and efficiency of care. Patients should ideally have easy access to specialists for diagnostic procedures, such as biopsies, and for treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated urology department is a significant asset.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for Dennis, MA (02638) is a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It is not a single, easily quantifiable number. Instead, it represents a qualitative evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in relation to prostate cancer care. Factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the overall score.

The assessment should be periodically updated. Healthcare landscapes are dynamic. Physician availability can change, new practices may open, and telemedicine adoption rates can fluctuate. Regular updates ensure that the analysis remains relevant and reflects the current state of care.

To improve the accuracy of this assessment, additional data points are needed. Publicly available information on physician practices, hospital services, and community resources is a starting point. Patient surveys and interviews with healthcare professionals can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care. Collaboration with local healthcare organizations can also enhance the analysis.

In conclusion, the provision of prostate cancer care in Dennis, MA (02638) is a multifaceted issue. Assessing the availability and quality of primary care, the presence of specialist services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all essential components of a comprehensive analysis. This assessment provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Dennis and identifies areas where improvements can be made.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations and hospital services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of access to care and the geographic distribution of resources.