02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 02673 has some form of health insurance. 52.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.81 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 02673 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,898 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02673. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,307 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 595 health care providers accessible to residents in 02673, West Yarmouth, Massachusetts.

The analysis below examines the prostate cancer care landscape within ZIP code 02673, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts. This assessment considers factors crucial for effective prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and ongoing management. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare environment, enabling informed decisions for residents.

Physician-to-patient ratios represent a fundamental indicator of access to care. In West Yarmouth, the ratio of PCPs to the general population, and specifically to the male population over 50 (the demographic most at risk for prostate cancer), is a key consideration. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to easier access to appointments, timely screenings, and personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio may lead to longer wait times, potentially delaying crucial early detection and intervention strategies. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, combined with information from the US Census Bureau, provides a foundation for estimating these ratios. However, the actual ratio can be influenced by factors such as physician specialization (e.g., geriatric care), the number of patients covered by each practice, and the prevalence of chronic diseases within the population.

Standout practices within the area warrant specific attention. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to proactive prostate cancer screening, utilizing evidence-based guidelines and incorporating advanced diagnostic tools. Practices that consistently offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and, when necessary, referrals to urologists for further evaluation, are considered exemplary. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate seamless information exchange between PCPs, specialists, and patients, ensuring coordinated care and reducing the risk of errors. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on improving screening rates or reducing treatment delays, demonstrate a dedication to patient well-being. Identifying these standout practices requires a combination of public data analysis, patient reviews, and potentially, direct outreach to local medical professionals.

Telemedicine adoption has dramatically reshaped healthcare delivery, especially in areas with geographic limitations or patient mobility challenges. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to prostate cancer care. Telemedicine allows patients to discuss concerns, receive test results, and even participate in follow-up appointments from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly valuable for patients who may have difficulty traveling to a doctor's office, such as those with mobility issues or those living in more remote areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in West Yarmouth, and the types of services offered, are essential considerations in this analysis.

Mental health resources play a critical role in supporting patients navigating a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. The emotional and psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis can be profound, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, is therefore a crucial aspect of comprehensive prostate cancer care. PCPs who are aware of the mental health needs of their patients and are able to refer them to appropriate resources are considered to be providing a higher level of care. The proximity and accessibility of these resources, including the availability of mental health professionals who specialize in oncology, are also essential factors.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialists. While PCPs are the first point of contact for prostate cancer screening and initial assessment, prompt referral to a urologist is critical for diagnosis and treatment. The proximity of urology practices, the reputation of the urologists, and the ease with which PCPs can refer patients to these specialists are all important factors. Practices that have established strong relationships with local urologists, ensuring a smooth and efficient referral process, are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The integration of specialists into the overall care plan ensures that patients receive the appropriate level of expertise and treatment.

The overall quality of prostate cancer care in West Yarmouth is also affected by factors such as the availability of advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and PET scans, and the proximity to radiation therapy and surgical facilities. Patients need timely access to these resources to receive the best possible care. The analysis should also consider the presence of support services, such as patient navigators, who can help patients navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need.

In conclusion, the prostate cancer care landscape in West Yarmouth, MA, is a complex interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the practices that demonstrate a commitment to proactive screening, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of specialist care all contribute to the quality of care. A comprehensive assessment of these factors can provide valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in West Yarmouth, including the locations of PCPs, specialists, and support services, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, providing a valuable resource for patients and healthcare professionals alike.