02639, Dennis Port, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02639, Dennis Port, Massachusetts is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.25 percent of the residents in 02639 has some form of health insurance. 55.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.39 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 02639 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 537 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02639. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 792 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 919 health care providers accessible to residents in 02639, Dennis Port, Massachusetts.

Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Dennis Port, MA (ZIP Code 02639)

Analyzing the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within Dennis Port, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02639) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors such as physician availability, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive resources, all contributing to a "Prostate Cancer Score" for the area. This score is not a single, definitive number, but rather a composite assessment based on the following considerations.

Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access

The foundation of effective prostate cancer care rests upon accessible primary care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are crucial for early detection, screening, and referrals to specialists. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio within Dennis Port is paramount. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with U.S. Census Bureau population estimates for 02639, allows for an initial calculation. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this ratio alone is insufficient. The age distribution of the population in Dennis Port is also a factor. An older demographic, as is common in coastal communities, may require more frequent medical attention, potentially straining the existing physician resources.

Further investigation into the types of primary care practices in the area is essential. Are there solo practices, multi-specialty groups, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? The presence of larger systems, such as Cape Cod Healthcare, often indicates access to a broader range of specialists and resources, including urologists who are critical for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Examining the acceptance of new patients by PCPs is also important. Are appointments readily available, or are there significant wait times? This directly impacts the timeliness of care.

Standout Practices and Specialist Availability

Identifying standout practices within Dennis Port requires examining their reputation, services offered, and patient reviews. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Reviews often highlight physician communication skills, the thoroughness of examinations, and the overall patient experience. Practices with consistently positive reviews and a reputation for patient-centered care would score higher.

Beyond primary care, the availability of specialists, particularly urologists, is critical. The presence of urologists within Dennis Port, or in nearby towns, is a significant factor. If urologists are not directly available, the proximity and accessibility of specialists in larger regional centers like Hyannis or Barnstable are essential. The ease of referral pathways between PCPs and urologists, and the efficiency of appointment scheduling, also impact the overall score. The availability of specialized diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging (MRI, PET scans) and biopsy capabilities, within the area is another important consideration.

Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration

The adoption of telemedicine by local practices significantly impacts access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in more remote areas of the community. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online patient portals score higher. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and provide educational resources, improving the overall patient experience and potentially reducing the burden on in-person appointments.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial aspect of technological integration. EHRs allow for seamless information sharing between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of errors. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including the ability to share records with specialists and patients, would score higher. The use of patient portals for appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and communication with physicians also enhances the patient experience.

Mental Health Resources and Supportive Care

Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources and supportive care is an essential component of the overall score. This includes the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the area or nearby.

The presence of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families is also important. These groups provide a valuable forum for sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and accessing educational resources. The availability of resources for managing side effects of treatment, such as incontinence or erectile dysfunction, also contributes to the score. This might include physical therapy, counseling, and access to specialized medical devices.

Prostate Cancer Score Synthesis

Synthesizing all these factors into a single "Prostate Cancer Score" for Dennis Port is complex. It's a holistic evaluation. A higher score would reflect a community with:

* A favorable physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for PCPs.
* Readily accessible primary care and specialist (urologist) services.
* Practices with positive reputations and patient-centered approaches.
* Robust telemedicine adoption and the effective use of technology.
* Readily available mental health resources and supportive care services.

Conversely, a lower score would indicate challenges in any of these areas, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and a less supportive patient experience.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the prostate cancer care landscape in Dennis Port.

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