02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.02 percent of the residents in 02747 has some form of health insurance. 31.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.69 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 02747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,474 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,481 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,124 health care providers accessible to residents in 02747, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

The analysis of prostate cancer care within ZIP code 02747, encompassing North Dartmouth, Massachusetts, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the bedrock of early detection and referral, alongside evaluating the specific expertise and resources available for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive healthcare landscape.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from reputable sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau must be analyzed to ascertain the PCP-to-patient ratio within 02747. This analysis should be compared to state and national averages to determine whether the area faces a shortage or surplus of primary care providers. This ratio impacts early detection strategies for prostate cancer, as PCPs are often the first point of contact for men experiencing symptoms or requiring routine screenings.

The identification of standout practices is critical. These are medical facilities or groups that demonstrate excellence in prostate cancer care. This involves evaluating factors such as the experience and specialization of the urologists and oncologists within the practice, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI and PET scans), and the range of treatment options offered (including surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy). Publicly available data, including patient reviews, physician profiles, and hospital quality reports, should be consulted to identify practices that consistently deliver high-quality care. The presence of a dedicated prostate cancer center or a practice affiliated with a major hospital system often indicates a higher level of resources and expertise.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or for patients who find it difficult to travel. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within 02747 can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. The analysis should assess the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., initial consultations, follow-up visits, remote monitoring), and the technology infrastructure in place to support telemedicine (e.g., secure video conferencing platforms, patient portals). Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and potentially reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Mental health resources play a crucial role in prostate cancer care. A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services within the community, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices and urology clinics is a positive indicator. Practices that offer on-site counseling or referrals to mental health professionals can provide comprehensive support to patients navigating the emotional and psychological aspects of their diagnosis and treatment. The presence of support groups specifically for prostate cancer patients and their families is another valuable resource.

Primary care availability directly impacts prostate cancer outcomes. Early detection is paramount, and PCPs are often the first to screen for prostate cancer. Adequate access to PCPs is critical to ensure men receive timely screenings, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs). A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses and potentially worse outcomes. The analysis should assess the geographical distribution of PCPs within 02747, considering factors like proximity to patients, transportation options, and insurance acceptance. The availability of same-day or urgent care appointments can also improve access to care and facilitate early intervention.

The specific practices within 02747 should be scrutinized. Detailed research into each practice is needed. This includes the number of urologists and oncologists, their specializations (e.g., robotic surgery, brachytherapy), and their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers. The availability of advanced technologies, such as MRI-guided biopsies and genomic testing, should be assessed. The practice’s commitment to patient education and support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, should be evaluated.

The role of hospitals is important. The analysis should identify the hospitals serving the 02747 area and assess their capabilities in prostate cancer care. This includes the availability of surgical services, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The hospital’s accreditation status, patient satisfaction scores, and outcomes data should be reviewed. The presence of a dedicated cancer center or a multidisciplinary team of specialists can indicate a higher level of expertise and resources.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the population within 02747. Prostate cancer disproportionately affects certain racial and ethnic groups. Understanding the demographic makeup of the area can help identify potential disparities in access to care and tailor interventions to address these disparities. Data on age, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status should be analyzed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the community's needs.

The adoption of innovative treatments and technologies should be considered. The analysis should assess the availability of advanced treatment options, such as robotic-assisted surgery, focal therapy, and immunotherapy. The practice’s participation in clinical trials and its commitment to research can also indicate a higher level of expertise and innovation. Staying current with the latest advancements in prostate cancer care is essential for providing patients with the best possible outcomes.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of prostate cancer care in 02747 requires a multifaceted approach. It involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and scrutinizing mental health resources. The availability of primary care and the specific capabilities of local practices and hospitals are critical. This analysis should be a dynamic process, constantly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and advancements in prostate cancer care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of 02747 and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize physician locations, hospital affiliations, and other relevant data points, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.