Health Scores Near 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.96 percent of the residents in 02576 has some form of health insurance. 47.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.09 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 02576 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 640 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02576. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,064 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 604 health care providers accessible to residents in 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 02576, West Wareham, Massachusetts
| Alzheimers Score | 56 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 64 |
| Provider Score | 28 |
| Hospital Score | 55 |
| Travel Score | 53 |
| 02576 | West Wareham | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in West Wareham (ZIP Code 02576)**
Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare resources for individuals affected by or at risk of Alzheimer's disease in West Wareham, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02576) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates various factors crucial for effective patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape and identify potential strengths and weaknesses in supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.
West Wareham, a community nestled within Plymouth County, presents a unique demographic profile that influences the healthcare needs of its residents. The aging population, a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's, necessitates a robust and accessible healthcare system capable of providing specialized care. The following sections delve into the specific aspects of the healthcare ecosystem within the ZIP code, assessing its capacity to address the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator**
The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric in assessing healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased stress for patients and caregivers. In West Wareham, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial factor. Data from sources like the Massachusetts Medical Society and the U.S. Census Bureau can be used to determine the current ratio. A favorable ratio, for instance, would indicate a greater likelihood of timely access to PCPs, who often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline.
Specialists, particularly neurologists and geriatricians, are essential for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of Alzheimer's. The availability of these specialists within or near West Wareham is another key aspect of the analysis. The distance patients must travel to access specialized care significantly impacts their quality of life and the ability of caregivers to provide support. A lower ratio of specialists may indicate a need for increased outreach programs or the development of partnerships with specialists in neighboring communities.
**Standout Practices: Centers of Excellence**
Identifying standout practices within West Wareham and the surrounding areas is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care, incorporating innovative approaches, and fostering a patient-centered environment. Criteria for identifying standout practices include:
* **Specialized Training:** Does the practice have physicians with specific training in geriatrics, neurology, or cognitive disorders?
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Does the practice offer comprehensive diagnostic testing, including cognitive assessments and access to advanced imaging (e.g., MRI, PET scans)?
* **Care Coordination:** Does the practice have dedicated care coordinators who assist patients and families in navigating the healthcare system, accessing resources, and managing medication?
* **Support Services:** Does the practice offer support groups, educational programs, and caregiver resources?
* **Research Involvement:** Does the practice participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease?
Analyzing these factors will help identify practices that excel in providing comprehensive and compassionate care.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Expanding Access**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by physicians in West Wareham is an important consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate:
* **Remote Consultations:** Patients can consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to their routines.
* **Medication Management:** Telemedicine can be used to monitor medication adherence and adjust dosages as needed.
* **Cognitive Assessments:** Certain cognitive assessments can be administered remotely, allowing for early detection of cognitive decline.
* **Caregiver Support:** Telemedicine can provide caregivers with access to support groups, educational resources, and counseling services.
The Alzheimer's Score will assess the extent to which physicians in West Wareham utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services to patients.
**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Psychological Impact**
Alzheimer's disease has a profound impact on mental health, both for patients and caregivers. Individuals with Alzheimer's may experience depression, anxiety, agitation, and other behavioral changes. Caregivers often face significant stress, burnout, and emotional distress. Therefore, access to mental health resources is critical. The analysis will evaluate:
* **Availability of Psychiatrists and Therapists:** The number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists in the area.
* **Specialized Mental Health Services:** The availability of mental health services specifically tailored to individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups.
* **Collaboration between Primary Care and Mental Health Providers:** The extent to which primary care physicians collaborate with mental health providers to provide integrated care.
* **Access to Psychiatric Medications:** The availability of psychiatrists who can prescribe and manage medications for mental health conditions.
A robust mental health infrastructure is essential for addressing the psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's.
**Conclusion: A Holistic Assessment**
The Alzheimer's Score for West Wareham will provide a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score will highlight areas of strength and identify potential gaps in care. This information can be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare providers in improving their services, and empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare. The goal is to create a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for those affected by Alzheimer's disease in West Wareham.
**Take Action with CartoChrome Maps**
To visualize the healthcare resources in West Wareham and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of physicians, specialists, and mental health providers, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can help you identify nearby healthcare providers, assess travel times, and visualize the availability of resources in your community. Visit CartoChrome maps today to take control of your healthcare journey.
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