02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 02702 has some form of health insurance. 30.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.03 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 02702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02702. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,683 health care providers accessible to residents in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts.

The following analysis assesses the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care access within ZIP code 02702, focusing on the town of Assonet, Massachusetts. This evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine and mental health support. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for men concerned about prostate health.

Assessing the quality of prostate cancer care begins with understanding the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are the initial point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or seeking preventative screenings. A robust PCP network is crucial for early detection and effective management of prostate cancer. The physician-to-patient ratio in Assonet is a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access and more personalized care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau, when combined, can provide a reasonable estimate of this ratio.

The presence of specialists, such as urologists, within or easily accessible to the 02702 ZIP code is also critical. While PCPs often initiate prostate cancer screenings, urologists are responsible for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The proximity and availability of urologists directly impact the speed and quality of care. Examining the number of urologists practicing in the area, their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers, and their specific areas of expertise (e.g., robotic surgery, radiation therapy) are essential factors in this assessment. The presence of a comprehensive cancer center within a reasonable driving distance significantly enhances the quality of care by providing access to multidisciplinary teams and advanced treatment options.

Beyond physician availability, the characteristics of local medical practices play a significant role. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is a key indicator of a modern and efficient practice. EHRs facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information between providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that utilize patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their doctors online, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that are recognized for their quality of care, either through accreditation or awards, often indicate a higher standard of service.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly for follow-up appointments, consultations, and medication management. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services can also reduce the burden on patients and providers, leading to greater efficiency and improved patient satisfaction. Examining the specific telemedicine platforms used by local practices and the types of services offered is essential.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care and urology practices is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of prostate cancer care. A prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can have a significant impact on a man's mental and emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges are common. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration ensures that patients receive comprehensive support throughout their cancer journey.

Identifying standout practices within the 02702 ZIP code involves a careful evaluation of all these factors. Practices that demonstrate a high physician-to-patient ratio, employ advanced technologies like EHRs and telemedicine, offer comprehensive mental health support, and have affiliations with reputable hospitals or cancer centers are likely to provide a higher quality of care. Patient reviews, online ratings, and recommendations from other healthcare providers can also provide valuable insights into the reputation and quality of specific practices.

Assessing primary care availability in Assonet requires a similar approach, focusing on the same factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of technology, the availability of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial considerations. The number of PCPs practicing in Assonet, their affiliations, and their areas of specialization are key determinants of access. The availability of same-day appointments, extended office hours, and weekend availability can further enhance access and convenience.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within Assonet is also important. Are practices clustered in one area, or are they distributed throughout the town? This distribution impacts access for residents in different parts of Assonet. Public transportation options and the availability of parking are other factors that can influence access.

In conclusion, the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in the 02702 ZIP code, specifically in Assonet, is multifaceted. It depends on the availability of physicians, the characteristics of medical practices, the adoption of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed analysis of these factors, utilizing publicly available data, patient reviews, and expert opinions.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Assonet, including the location of medical practices, physician availability, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and making informed decisions about your healthcare needs.