Health Scores Near 02630, Barnstable, Massachusetts
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02630, Barnstable, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.17 percent of the residents in 02630 has some form of health insurance. 33.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.07 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 02630 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 408 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02630. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 474 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 968 health care providers accessible to residents in 02630, Barnstable, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 02630, Barnstable, Massachusetts
| Alzheimers Score | 94 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 72 |
| Provider Score | 67 |
| Hospital Score | 72 |
| Travel Score | 65 |
| 02630 | Barnstable | 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 |
The complexities of Alzheimer's disease and its impact on healthcare access necessitate a detailed analysis of resources within specific geographic areas. This analysis will focus on evaluating the availability of care for Alzheimer's patients in ZIP code 02630 (Harwich, Massachusetts) and the broader context of primary care in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. The goal is to assess the current state of resources and identify areas for improvement, using a framework we'll term the "Alzheimer's Score." This score considers factors like physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health services, all crucial for supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.
The Alzheimer's Score, in this context, isn't a formal numerical grading system but a qualitative assessment based on available data and observations. It considers the following key areas: Physician-to-Patient Ratios, Standout Practices, Telemedicine Adoption, and Mental Health Resources. Each area contributes to the overall assessment of care accessibility and quality.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios: A Critical Indicator**
The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. In ZIP code 02630, the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians and neurologists, is a crucial metric. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per patient) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment. Barnstable County, as a whole, may have a different ratio than the specific ZIP code, but understanding the county-wide context is essential for a comprehensive understanding. Data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau will be needed to determine these ratios. Any analysis must account for the aging population of Cape Cod, which likely places additional strain on the healthcare system. This is particularly true for specialists like geriatricians and neurologists, who are critical in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's.
**Standout Practices: Identifying Centers of Excellence**
Identifying practices that excel in Alzheimer's care is vital. This involves evaluating the services offered, the training of staff, and the overall patient experience. Some practices may have dedicated memory clinics or specialized programs for Alzheimer's patients and their families. These programs often include support groups, educational resources, and care coordination services. Researching local hospitals, such as Cape Cod Hospital, and primary care networks within the area is essential. Reviews from patients and family members, as well as recognition from organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, can help identify standout practices. These practices often serve as models for best practices in Alzheimer's care.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**
Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in geographically dispersed areas like Cape Cod. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and specialists in 02630 is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with doctors remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, particularly for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of telehealth appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine (e.g., medication management, cognitive assessments), and the ease of use of telemedicine platforms are all crucial. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can significantly improve the accessibility of care for Alzheimer's patients.
**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**
Alzheimer's disease often brings with it a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The availability of mental health resources in 02630 is therefore a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Assessing the number of mental health professionals in the area, the availability of specialized services for Alzheimer's patients, and the integration of mental health care into primary care practices are all important. Collaboration between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care. The presence of support groups for both patients and caregivers is also a key indicator of a supportive care environment.
**Primary Care Availability in Barnstable: A Broader Perspective**
While 02630 is the primary focus, understanding the broader context of primary care availability in Barnstable County is essential. This includes assessing the overall number of primary care physicians, the geographic distribution of practices, and the accessibility of care for all residents, not just those with Alzheimer's. This information provides a baseline for evaluating the specific resources available in 02630 and helps identify potential gaps in care. County-wide data on wait times for appointments, insurance acceptance, and the availability of after-hours care can further inform the assessment.
**Conclusion: A Call to Action**
Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score for 02630 and Barnstable County reveals the complexities of providing adequate care for Alzheimer's patients. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall assessment. While this analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of care, further in-depth research and data collection are needed to create a comprehensive picture.
To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, access the latest data and create insightful maps, visit CartoChrome maps.
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