02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.32 percent of the residents in 02769 has some form of health insurance. 24.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.72 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 02769 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,594 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02769. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,179 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,657 health care providers accessible to residents in 02769, Rehoboth, Massachusetts.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment within the 02769 ZIP code, encompassing Rehoboth, Massachusetts, requires a multifaceted approach to assess the quality of care available. This analysis will delve into the landscape of primary care providers, their capacity to manage prostate health, and the broader healthcare ecosystem's impact on patient outcomes. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to men in Rehoboth and to highlight key areas for improvement and patient empowerment.

The foundation of prostate cancer care rests on the accessibility and quality of primary care. Rehoboth's primary care availability is a critical factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio offers a glimpse into the potential for timely appointments and personalized attention. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally translates to better access and potentially more comprehensive care. The local healthcare system's ability to attract and retain qualified primary care physicians is therefore paramount.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care hinges on several factors. The adoption of evidence-based guidelines for prostate cancer screening is essential. This includes the judicious use of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, digital rectal exams (DREs), and appropriate referrals to urologists. Primary care physicians must be knowledgeable about the latest recommendations from organizations like the American Urological Association (AUA) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).

Standout practices in Rehoboth would demonstrate a commitment to proactive prostate health management. This could involve implementing robust patient education programs, offering convenient screening options, and fostering strong relationships with local urologists. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient data, manage reminders for screening, and facilitate seamless communication between specialists are likely to provide a higher standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly impact access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telehealth consultations with primary care physicians and specialists can reduce travel time, improve convenience, and facilitate earlier detection of potential problems. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer patients a valuable alternative to traditional in-person visits, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of cancer care, but they are crucial. A prostate cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, within the local healthcare system is therefore an important indicator of the overall quality of care. Primary care practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals and be prepared to address the psychological needs of their patients.

The presence of specialized urology practices within or near the 02769 ZIP code is another vital component of prostate cancer care. Urologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. Their expertise in performing biopsies, interpreting imaging results, and recommending treatment options is essential. The proximity of urology practices, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools (such as MRI), and the reputation of the urologists themselves all contribute to the overall quality of care.

The local hospital system plays a significant role in supporting prostate cancer care. Hospitals provide access to advanced imaging technologies, surgical facilities, and radiation therapy services. The quality of the hospital's oncology department, the expertise of its medical staff, and the availability of supportive care services (such as physical therapy and nutritional counseling) all contribute to the overall patient experience.

Another key consideration is the patient's experience. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, and the overall level of patient satisfaction. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, actively solicit feedback, and make efforts to improve the patient experience are likely to deliver better outcomes.

In evaluating the quality of prostate cancer care in Rehoboth, it's also essential to consider the availability of community resources. This includes support groups, educational programs, and access to information about prostate cancer. Organizations like the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) provide valuable resources for patients and their families. The presence of these resources within the community can empower patients to take an active role in their care.

The cost of care is another important factor. Prostate cancer treatment can be expensive, and the financial burden can create significant stress for patients and their families. The availability of affordable health insurance, the transparency of pricing, and the availability of financial assistance programs can all impact access to care and the overall patient experience.

The overall picture of prostate cancer care in Rehoboth is a complex one. It requires a careful evaluation of multiple factors, including the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of their services, the presence of specialized urology practices, the resources of the local hospital system, the availability of mental health services, and the cost of care. A comprehensive assessment should consider all these factors to determine the quality of care available.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians, urologists, hospitals, and support services, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to analyze the healthcare landscape in Rehoboth and beyond.