02638, Dennis, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 02638 has some form of health insurance. 46.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.50 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 02638 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02638. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 760 health care providers accessible to residents in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02638)

This analysis explores the landscape of arthritis care within ZIP code 02638, focusing on Dennis, Massachusetts, and its surrounding areas. We will examine the availability and quality of primary care, a crucial element in managing arthritis, alongside other key factors impacting patient well-being. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of arthritis care often lies within the primary care physician (PCP). In Dennis, assessing the availability of PCPs is paramount. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a snapshot of access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally indicates better accessibility. Publicly available data, such as that from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, can be used to determine the number of actively practicing PCPs within the 02638 ZIP code. This figure, compared to the population of Dennis and surrounding areas, provides a preliminary indication of access. However, simply counting doctors isn't enough. The analysis must also consider the acceptance of new patients by these practices. Are the doors open, or are practices at capacity?

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating factors like the experience and specialization of the physicians, the range of services offered, and the patient experience. Practices known for excellence may stand out. Identifying these "standout practices" involves researching patient reviews, examining practice accreditations, and assessing the breadth of services provided. Does the practice offer on-site diagnostic testing, such as X-rays, which can expedite diagnosis and treatment? Does it have a strong referral network to rheumatologists and other specialists? These are key considerations.

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can improve access, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. The analysis must determine the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Dennis. Do practices offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education? The presence of telemedicine capabilities contributes positively to the "Arthritis Score."

Arthritis is not just a physical ailment; it often has significant mental health implications. Chronic pain, reduced mobility, and the limitations imposed by the disease can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. The analysis must assess the presence of mental health professionals within the Dennis area, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. Do PCPs have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Are there integrated mental health services within primary care practices? The availability of these resources directly impacts the overall "Arthritis Score."

The "Arthritis Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It's a qualitative evaluation, weighing the availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. A high score indicates a favorable environment for arthritis patients, with good access to care, comprehensive services, and support for their overall well-being. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, enhancing telemedicine capabilities, or expanding mental health resources.

The evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the examination of telemedicine adoption, and the assessment of mental health resource availability all contribute to a nuanced understanding of arthritis care in Dennis. This holistic approach is essential for providing a comprehensive assessment.

The process of gathering and analyzing this data requires careful research. Publicly available information from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, the US Census Bureau, and online patient review platforms is invaluable. However, the information must be interpreted with caution, recognizing that patient reviews can be subjective and that data can change.

The analysis of standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing practice websites, examining their accreditations (e.g., NCQA), and potentially contacting the practices directly to inquire about their services and patient care approaches. Understanding the specific services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the practice's approach to patient education are all critical elements.

Telemedicine adoption is another area requiring specific investigation. The analysis must determine which practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of access for patients. This information can be gathered through practice websites, phone calls, and potentially through patient surveys.

The assessment of mental health resources requires a broader scope. This involves identifying mental health professionals in the area, understanding their specialties, and determining the referral pathways available to PCPs. This might involve contacting local mental health clinics, hospitals, and other providers.

The final "Arthritis Score" will be a reflection of the overall quality and accessibility of care within the 02638 ZIP code. It’s a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. It’s designed to provide a practical assessment of the resources available to arthritis patients in the Dennis area.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear, interactive view of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of mental health services within the Dennis area and beyond. They transform raw data into actionable insights, empowering patients and healthcare providers alike.