02364, Kingston, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 02364, Kingston, Massachusetts is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.12 percent of the residents in 02364 has some form of health insurance. 25.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.10 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 02364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,012 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02364. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,515 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,309 health care providers accessible to residents in 02364, Kingston, Massachusetts.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Kingston, MA (ZIP Code 02364)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within Kingston, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02364) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Arthritis Score," considers factors crucial for effective management of this chronic condition, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the provision of supportive services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive picture of the local healthcare landscape, ultimately informing patients seeking optimal arthritis care.

The foundation of a strong Arthritis Score lies in the physician-to-patient ratio. Kingston, like many suburban communities, likely faces challenges in this area. While precise data on rheumatologist-to-population ratios for 02364 is difficult to obtain without proprietary databases, the overall availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts arthritis care. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing joint pain and can provide initial diagnoses, symptom management, and referrals to specialists. A robust PCP network, therefore, is vital. A scarcity of PCPs, or long wait times to see them, negatively impacts the Arthritis Score. Furthermore, the presence of rheumatologists within a reasonable commuting distance is critical. This includes specialists in nearby towns, as the direct availability of a rheumatologist within the ZIP code is not always the sole determinant of access.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This extends beyond simply providing consultations and prescriptions. Key indicators include the adoption of evidence-based treatment protocols, patient education programs, and a multidisciplinary approach. Ideally, a top-rated practice integrates physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists into their care model. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis also elevate their standing. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays and ultrasounds, streamlines the diagnostic process and enhances the patient experience, contributing positively to the score. Conversely, practices with poor patient reviews, long wait times, or limited communication channels detract from the overall assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in modern healthcare, and its presence significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine offers several benefits for arthritis patients, including reduced travel time, increased access to specialists, and improved medication adherence. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and secure online portals for communication and prescription refills receive higher scores. The ease with which patients can access their medical records and communicate with their care team remotely is a critical factor. Practices lacking telemedicine capabilities, particularly those with limited hours or geographical constraints, will be penalized.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within a practice or through referral networks is a crucial component of a high Arthritis Score. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling services, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals receive higher marks. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in chronic pain management. The absence of these resources negatively impacts the patient's ability to manage the multifaceted challenges associated with arthritis.

Primary care availability in Kingston is a critical factor influencing the Arthritis Score. The efficiency and accessibility of primary care directly affect the ability of patients to obtain timely diagnoses and referrals. This includes the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the average wait times for appointments, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices with efficient appointment scheduling systems, extended hours, and readily available contact information contribute positively to the score. Conversely, practices with long wait times, limited availability, or poor communication negatively impact the overall assessment.

The overall Arthritis Score for Kingston, MA (02364) is a composite measure, influenced by the interplay of these factors. While a detailed score requires access to proprietary healthcare data, the analysis highlights the key components. The presence of a robust PCP network, access to rheumatologists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the characteristics of standout practices are all critical determinants of the quality of arthritis care in the community. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kingston, MA, and to visualize the distribution of physicians, practices, and resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's interactive maps provide detailed visualizations of healthcare providers, allowing users to assess accessibility, identify areas with limited resources, and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the healthcare landscape in Kingston and beyond.