02668, West Barnstable, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02668, West Barnstable, Massachusetts is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.81 percent of the residents in 02668 has some form of health insurance. 30.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.18 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 02668 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 682 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02668. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 568 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 529 health care providers accessible to residents in 02668, West Barnstable, Massachusetts.

The analysis below assesses the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility in West Barnstable, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02668), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and related resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking healthcare services in the area.

West Barnstable, a primarily residential community, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The availability of specialized prostate cancer care directly within the ZIP code is limited. Residents typically rely on referrals to specialists located in nearby towns or regional medical centers. Therefore, this analysis considers the broader context of primary care, which serves as the gateway to specialized care, and examines the overall accessibility and quality of services available.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In West Barnstable, as in many suburban and rural areas, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a critical factor. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are difficult to obtain due to constant fluctuations in physician staffing and patient demographics, publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provide valuable insights. These sources often highlight areas that are underserved or have a shortage of primary care providers. The analysis considers these metrics to understand the potential challenges residents may face in securing timely appointments and ongoing care.

Standout practices in the area are evaluated based on several factors, including patient reviews, the breadth of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that have consistently received positive feedback from patients, as reflected in online reviews and surveys, are considered favorably. The range of services offered, from routine checkups and vaccinations to chronic disease management and preventative screenings, is another key consideration. Practices that offer a comprehensive suite of primary care services are generally ranked higher.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in evaluating the quality and accessibility of care. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, has become increasingly important, especially in areas with geographic limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and timely care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking follow-up appointments. The analysis considers the availability of telemedicine options, the ease of use of these platforms, and the types of services offered through telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall healthcare, and their availability is a critical component of this analysis. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing mental health concerns. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within or affiliated with primary care practices is a significant advantage. The analysis considers the availability of mental health services, the integration of mental health care into primary care, and the ease of access to these resources.

Prostate cancer screening and management are closely linked to primary care. While primary care physicians may not perform specialized procedures, they play a vital role in early detection through PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing and digital rectal exams. They also provide referrals to urologists for further evaluation and treatment. The analysis considers the proactive approach of primary care practices toward prostate cancer screening, the availability of information and resources for patients, and the coordination of care with specialists.

The quality of care also depends on the practice's commitment to preventative medicine. This includes regular checkups, screenings for other common cancers, and lifestyle counseling. Practices that emphasize preventative care are likely to provide more comprehensive and proactive healthcare services. The analysis considers the practice's approach to preventative medicine, including the availability of educational materials, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and the tracking of patient health metrics.

The overall patient experience is another crucial aspect of the analysis. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the waiting times in the office, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall communication with the healthcare providers. Practices that prioritize patient satisfaction and provide a positive experience are generally ranked higher. The analysis considers the patient experience based on available data from patient reviews, surveys, and other sources.

In assessing primary care availability, the analysis considers the proximity of practices to residential areas, the availability of transportation options, and the hours of operation. Practices that are conveniently located, accessible by public transportation, and offer flexible appointment times are more accessible to a wider range of residents. The analysis considers these factors to understand the practical challenges patients may face in accessing care.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs streamline patient care by allowing physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently. They also facilitate communication between healthcare providers and improve the coordination of care. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs are generally better equipped to provide high-quality, coordinated care. The analysis considers the use of EHRs, the interoperability of these systems, and the benefits they provide to patients.

The analysis recognizes the limitations of relying solely on publicly available data and information. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and practices may change their services or staffing at any time. Therefore, the analysis is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a definitive ranking of healthcare providers. Residents are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care.

The evaluation of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in West Barnstable is a complex process. It requires careful consideration of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall patient experience. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and access the services they require.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Barnstable and the surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, hospitals, and specialists, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for visualizing healthcare resources and making informed decisions about your care.