02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 02764 has some form of health insurance. 36.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.25 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 02764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 935 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02764. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: North Dighton, MA (ZIP Code 02764)

Analyzing the landscape of prostate cancer care and primary care availability in North Dighton, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02764) requires a nuanced understanding of several interconnected factors. This analysis aims to provide a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment considers the unique needs of the community, especially concerning prostate cancer detection and management.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system lies in its primary care infrastructure. In North Dighton, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the accessibility of early prostate cancer screening and referral pathways. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, while a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data, such as the US Census Bureau and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, must be analyzed to determine the precise ratio within the specified ZIP code. This data, however, is often limited. The analysis must account for the surrounding towns and cities, as many residents in North Dighton may seek care outside of their immediate geographic boundaries.

A critical aspect of this evaluation is the identification of standout practices. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to preventative care, including proactive prostate cancer screening protocols, deserve recognition. This includes practices that utilize the latest guidelines from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Further, practices that offer patient education materials and support groups play a vital role in empowering patients to take control of their health. These practices may be identified through patient reviews, physician directories, and local healthcare provider listings.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine platforms enable remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational sessions. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow should be recognized for their forward-thinking approach. This integration can improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel for appointments. The availability of telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations, can significantly impact the overall "Prostate Cancer Score."

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment cannot be overstated. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial factor in this analysis. Practices that offer or refer patients to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This support can help patients cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. The presence of support groups, both in-person and virtual, also contributes to a higher score.

Assessing the quality of prostate cancer care requires a deep dive into the specific practices within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This includes evaluating the experience and expertise of the urologists and oncologists serving the community. Information on physician training, board certifications, and years of experience should be readily available. Hospitals and clinics that offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options, such as MRI-guided biopsies, robotic-assisted surgery, and radiation therapy, contribute to a higher score.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the presence of community resources. Access to local support groups, patient advocacy organizations, and educational programs can significantly improve the patient experience. These resources provide valuable information, emotional support, and a sense of community for those affected by prostate cancer. The availability of these resources reflects the community's commitment to supporting its residents.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis. Factors such as changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and shifts in healthcare policy can all impact the score.

The methodology for calculating the "Prostate Cancer Score" should be transparent and clearly defined. This includes weighting the various factors based on their relative importance. For example, physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of screening programs might be given higher weight than the presence of support groups. The specific weighting system should be based on evidence-based research and expert opinions.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the community. North Dighton, like many communities, has a diverse population. The analysis must account for any disparities in access to care or outcomes based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Addressing health disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to high-quality prostate cancer care.

The overall "Prostate Cancer Score" for North Dighton (ZIP code 02764) is a composite measure reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of prostate cancer care and primary care resources. A higher score indicates a more robust and patient-centered healthcare system. A lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The final score will be a comprehensive assessment, drawing on publicly available data, patient reviews, and expert opinions. This will provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in North Dighton.

For a comprehensive, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in North Dighton, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we recommend exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide a dynamic and informative view of the healthcare ecosystem, supporting informed decision-making for patients and healthcare providers alike.