02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 02748 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.00 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 02748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,010 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,202 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,635 health care providers accessible to residents in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

The analysis below assesses the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 02748, encompassing South Dartmouth, Massachusetts. It considers factors such as physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and associated mental health support, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals concerned about prostate health.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In South Dartmouth, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and urologists directly impacts the timeliness of prostate cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau provide a general framework. These sources, alongside local hospital and clinic information, offer insights into the number of practicing physicians within the area and the estimated population served. Areas with lower physician density may experience longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions.

The quality of prostate cancer care extends beyond the sheer number of physicians. Standout practices are characterized by their commitment to comprehensive patient care, often incorporating advanced diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and personalized treatment plans. These practices typically employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and support staff. The presence of accredited cancer centers, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, can significantly enhance the quality of care by providing access to cutting-edge technologies and clinical trials.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the context of prostate cancer care. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and access to specialist opinions, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can improve access to care. The availability of telehealth platforms, secure video conferencing, and remote monitoring devices are key indicators of a practice's technological integration. The ability to manage medication refills and access patient portals online further streamlines the patient experience.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but essential component of prostate cancer care. A cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of support groups, individual therapy, and resources for managing stress and coping with the emotional toll of cancer can significantly improve patient outcomes.

To assess the quality of care within ZIP Code 02748, it's crucial to investigate the specific practices and healthcare providers in the area. This involves researching their affiliations, accreditations, and patient reviews. Online resources, such as the websites of hospitals, clinics, and physician groups, provide valuable information about the services offered, the technologies used, and the experience of the medical staff. Patient testimonials and reviews can offer insights into the quality of care, the communication skills of the physicians, and the overall patient experience.

The presence of specialized prostate cancer centers or clinics within the area is another important factor. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, as well as access to clinical trials and innovative treatment options. The expertise of the medical staff, including urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists, is crucial in determining the quality of care.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, social workers, and dietitians, further enhances the patient experience. Patient navigators help guide patients through the complex healthcare system, coordinating appointments, and providing emotional support. Social workers can assist with practical needs, such as financial assistance and transportation. Dietitians can provide guidance on nutrition and lifestyle modifications to support overall health and well-being.

The integration of technology plays a vital role in modern prostate cancer care. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) can improve communication and coordination of care among healthcare providers. The use of patient portals allows patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and schedule appointments online. Advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer. Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery, can reduce recovery time and improve patient outcomes.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive prostate cancer care. The emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that provide access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups, individual therapy, and resources for managing stress and coping with the emotional toll of cancer can significantly improve patient outcomes.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of prostate cancer care and primary care accessibility in South Dartmouth (ZIP Code 02748) requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for individuals seeking high-quality healthcare in the area.

For a more detailed, visual, and interactive exploration of healthcare resources in South Dartmouth, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant information.