02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.92 percent of the residents in 02359 has some form of health insurance. 23.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.12 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 02359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,937 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,390 health care providers accessible to residents in 02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Pembroke, MA (ZIP Code 02359)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians and associated resources for individuals in Pembroke, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02359), with a specific focus on factors relevant to arthritis management. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration with mental health services, all critical components of comprehensive arthritis care. This score isn't a numerical value but a descriptive evaluation of the landscape.

Pembroke, a suburban community, presents a unique healthcare environment. While proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Boston offers advantages, local resources and accessibility are paramount for residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The analysis begins with an examination of physician-to-patient ratios.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally suggests better access to care. Data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with population estimates for Pembroke, is essential. This analysis would involve identifying the number of actively practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 02359 ZIP code and dividing the Pembroke population by that number. This ratio, however, only provides a snapshot. It doesn’t account for physician specialization (e.g., some PCPs may specialize in geriatric care, which is highly relevant for arthritis), or the number of patients each doctor can effectively manage.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the practices themselves are crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours, including evenings or weekends, to accommodate diverse schedules? Do they have on-site X-ray facilities, which are frequently needed for arthritis diagnosis and monitoring? Practices with these attributes would receive a higher score in this analysis. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated rheumatologists, either within the practice or through strong referral networks, is vital. The analysis would delve into the referral patterns of local PCPs, assessing the ease and speed with which patients can access rheumatology specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the modern healthcare landscape. The ability to conduct virtual consultations offers numerous benefits for arthritis patients, including reduced travel time, improved convenience, and potentially better adherence to treatment plans. This analysis would investigate the extent to which local primary care practices offer telemedicine services. Are virtual appointments available for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and medication management? The quality of the telemedicine platform (ease of use, technical support) would also be considered. Practices actively embracing and effectively implementing telemedicine would be rated favorably.

Mental health integration is another critical aspect of the Arthritis Score. Chronic pain, the hallmark of arthritis, often leads to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Effective arthritis care necessitates a holistic approach, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition. This analysis would evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices themselves or through established referral networks. Do practices have on-site therapists or counselors? Do they collaborate with mental health professionals in the community? Are there established protocols for screening and addressing mental health concerns in arthritis patients? Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to mental health integration would be highly regarded.

Standout practices within Pembroke would be identified based on these criteria. These practices would likely demonstrate a combination of favorable physician-to-patient ratios, patient-centered services (extended hours, on-site diagnostics), robust telemedicine offerings, and a strong commitment to mental health integration. The analysis would highlight specific examples of best practices, such as practices utilizing patient portals for communication and medication management, or those offering group support programs for arthritis patients. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their care.

The analysis would also consider the availability of ancillary services that support arthritis management. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to pain management specialists. Are these services readily accessible within the community? Are there established referral pathways between primary care practices and these specialists? The presence of these supporting services contributes to a higher Arthritis Score.

Furthermore, the analysis would acknowledge the importance of patient education and self-management resources. Do local practices provide educational materials about arthritis, including information on medication, exercise, and lifestyle modifications? Are there opportunities for patients to participate in self-management programs or support groups? Practices that prioritize patient education and empowerment would be viewed favorably.

The analysis would also consider the presence of any barriers to care. This includes factors such as insurance acceptance, language accessibility, and transportation limitations. Practices that actively address these barriers, for example, by accepting a wide range of insurance plans or offering translation services, would be recognized for their commitment to patient access.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for Pembroke, MA (02359) is not a single number, but a composite evaluation based on multiple factors. The analysis seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the primary care landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement. The goal is to empower residents with the information they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive the best possible care for their arthritis. This analysis underscores the importance of accessible, patient-centered, and integrated healthcare services for individuals living with chronic conditions.

To visually explore the distribution of primary care physicians, practice locations, and related healthcare resources in Pembroke and surrounding areas, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.