02739, Mattapoisett, Massachusetts Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 02739, Mattapoisett, Massachusetts is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.95 percent of the residents in 02739 has some form of health insurance. 39.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.26 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 02739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,080 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,608 health care providers accessible to residents in 02739, Mattapoisett, Massachusetts.

The analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02739), with a specific lens on their ability to manage patients with arthritis. This 'Arthritis Score' considers factors beyond basic physician-to-patient ratios, incorporating aspects like practice specialization, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all crucial for holistic arthritis care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. Analyzing data for ZIP code 02739 reveals a landscape where the availability of primary care physicians, while present, might not be abundant. The exact ratio fluctuates, influenced by factors like physician retirement, relocation, and the influx of new residents. However, the overall impression suggests a potential for longer wait times and increased difficulty in securing timely appointments, especially for new patients. This scarcity can be exacerbated for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis, who require regular check-ups and ongoing management.

The presence of specialists, particularly rheumatologists, is crucial for effective arthritis care. While primary care physicians can provide initial diagnosis and management, rheumatologists possess specialized knowledge and expertise in treating complex arthritis cases. The analysis indicates a need for patients to travel outside the immediate area for rheumatology consultations. This travel time and associated costs can create barriers to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or financial constraints often associated with arthritis. The lack of local rheumatology specialists significantly impacts the 'Arthritis Score', reflecting a potential deficiency in comprehensive care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, encompassing aspects like extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and proactive communication. In the Mattapoisett area, practices that are known for their patient-focused approach, including the use of patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling, are highly valued. These practices often foster a strong patient-physician relationship, which is essential for managing a chronic condition like arthritis. The ability of these practices to coordinate care with specialists and provide educational resources further enhances their value.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine offers the potential to provide virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring, all of which can improve access to care and reduce the burden of travel. The 'Arthritis Score' considers the extent to which practices in 02739 have embraced telemedicine. Practices that offer virtual appointments, especially for follow-up visits or medication adjustments, receive a higher score. This is particularly relevant for arthritis patients who may experience difficulty with mobility or transportation.

Mental health resources are a critical component of arthritis management. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues. The 'Arthritis Score' assesses the availability of mental health support within the primary care setting or through referrals to external providers. Practices that integrate mental health screenings, offer counseling services, or readily refer patients to mental health professionals receive a higher score. This integration ensures a holistic approach to care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of arthritis. The availability of support groups and educational programs also contributes to a higher score.

The analysis of mental health resources also considers the ability of primary care physicians to recognize and address the psychological impact of arthritis. The best practices include incorporating mental health screenings, providing counseling services, or referring patients to mental health professionals. The presence of support groups and educational programs also contributes to a higher score.

The 'Arthritis Score' is also influenced by the accessibility of ancillary services. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance is crucial for effective arthritis management. The closer these services are to the primary care practices, the better the score.

The availability of educational resources for patients is another important factor. This includes access to information about arthritis, self-management techniques, and support groups. Practices that provide patients with educational materials, or referrals to support groups, receive a higher score. This empowers patients to take an active role in their care.

The analysis also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their ability to facilitate care coordination. Practices that use EHRs effectively can share patient information with specialists, track patient progress, and improve communication. This contributes to a higher score.

The 'Arthritis Score' for primary care in Mattapoisett, MA, is influenced by the factors discussed above. The current landscape reveals both strengths and weaknesses. While some practices demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and telemedicine adoption, the overall availability of specialists, particularly rheumatologists, and the integration of mental health resources could be improved. The physician-to-patient ratio indicates a need for increased access, and the presence of standout practices is a positive sign.

The 'Arthritis Score' provides a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of primary care in Mattapoisett, MA, specifically for patients with arthritis. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the dynamic healthcare landscape. It is subject to change as practices evolve and adapt to the needs of their patients.

The analysis highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when evaluating the quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This holistic approach is essential for ensuring that patients with arthritis receive the comprehensive care they need.

The 'Arthritis Score' underscores the need for continuous improvement in the delivery of primary care. By addressing the identified weaknesses and building on the existing strengths, the healthcare community in Mattapoisett can enhance the quality of life for individuals living with arthritis.

For a visual representation of the physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points used in this analysis, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of primary care availability in Mattapoisett.