02813, Charlestown, Rhode Island Prostate Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 02813, Charlestown, Rhode Island is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.53 percent of the residents in 02813 has some form of health insurance. 35.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.03 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 02813 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02813. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,904 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 392 health care providers accessible to residents in 02813, Charlestown, Rhode Island.

## Prostate Cancer Score Analysis: Charlestown, RI (ZIP Code 02813)

Analyzing the availability and quality of prostate cancer care within Charlestown, Rhode Island (ZIP code 02813) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive perspective for residents seeking prostate cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The foundation of any strong healthcare system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Charlestown, like many areas, benefits from a network of PCPs who often serve as the initial point of contact for health concerns, including those related to prostate health. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per doctor, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be utilized to estimate this ratio within the 02813 ZIP code. This data should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient record-keeping and communication? EHR adoption is crucial for seamless information sharing between PCPs and specialists, particularly urologists who specialize in prostate health. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems often have greater resources and infrastructure, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.

The availability of urologists within or near the 02813 ZIP code is another critical factor. Urologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat prostate cancer. Examining the number of urologists practicing in the area, their affiliations with hospitals or cancer centers, and their specific areas of expertise (e.g., minimally invasive surgery, radiation therapy) provides a comprehensive picture. Proximity to specialized cancer centers, even outside the immediate ZIP code, can be a significant advantage, offering access to advanced treatment options and clinical trials.

Telemedicine has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, and its adoption is particularly relevant in the context of prostate cancer care. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining which practices and specialists offer virtual appointments, the types of services available via telehealth (e.g., initial consultations, medication management), and the technologies used (e.g., video conferencing platforms, remote monitoring devices).

The emotional and psychological impact of a prostate cancer diagnosis can be significant. Access to mental health resources is therefore a vital component of comprehensive care. This includes assessing the availability of mental health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area, their experience in treating patients with cancer, and their integration with the healthcare system. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Support groups and patient education programs also play a crucial role in providing emotional support and information to patients and their families.

Standout practices in Charlestown, RI, can be identified through a combination of factors. Practices with a high physician-to-patient ratio, offering extended hours, and actively embracing telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care. Practices affiliated with reputable hospitals or cancer centers often benefit from access to advanced technology and specialized expertise. Patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient education and offer support services, such as support groups or counseling, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The specific characteristics of each practice are important to note. Some practices may specialize in minimally invasive surgical techniques, while others may focus on radiation therapy. Some may have a strong emphasis on preventative care and screening, while others may focus on treating advanced stages of the disease. Understanding the specific strengths of each practice allows patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The proximity of the 02813 ZIP code to major medical centers in nearby cities, such as Providence, RI, is a significant advantage. These centers often offer access to specialized expertise, advanced technologies, and clinical trials that may not be available locally. The ability to easily travel to these centers for consultations, treatments, or second opinions expands the range of care options available to residents of Charlestown.

Overall, the prostate cancer score for Charlestown, RI (ZIP code 02813) is contingent on a variety of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs and urologists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the proximity to specialized cancer centers all contribute to the overall quality of care. Regular assessments of these factors, along with ongoing monitoring of patient outcomes and satisfaction levels, are essential to ensure that residents of Charlestown have access to the best possible prostate cancer care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Charlestown and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the data using interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and informative representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points. This can help you visualize the availability of care, identify potential gaps in services, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.