The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 06385 has some form of health insurance. 36.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.68 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 06385 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,302 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06385. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,266 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,312 health care providers accessible to residents in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut.
Health Scores in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut
Asthma Score | 62 |
---|---|
People Score | 42 |
Provider Score | 73 |
Hospital Score | 29 |
Travel Score | 65 |
06385 | Waterford | Connecticut | |
---|---|---|---|
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 |
Asthma Score Analysis: Waterford, CT (ZIP Code 06385)
Waterford, Connecticut, nestled along the southeastern coast, presents a unique landscape for healthcare, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 06385, focusing on factors relevant to asthma patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. We aim to provide a comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.
The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data, such as that from the Connecticut Department of Public Health, suggests that the PCP-to-patient ratio in Waterford, and the surrounding New London County, may be slightly below the national average. This indicates a potential for increased patient load on existing PCPs. This, in turn, can affect appointment availability and the time each patient receives during consultations, impacting the overall quality of care, especially for those with chronic conditions like asthma.
Within Waterford, several primary care practices stand out. These practices often differentiate themselves through a combination of factors. Some may have a specific focus on respiratory health, employing nurses or medical assistants with specialized training in asthma management. Others might be affiliated with larger healthcare systems, providing access to a broader network of specialists, including pulmonologists, allergists, and other crucial support services. The presence of these specialists is vital for comprehensive asthma care, as they can provide advanced diagnostics, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments are particularly valuable, as they increase accessibility for patients who may struggle to attend appointments during regular business hours.
Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in modern healthcare, and its adoption rate within Waterford’s primary care practices is a key consideration. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and follow-up consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. It can also be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically remote areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, are likely to receive a higher ‘Asthma Score’ due to their enhanced accessibility and convenience.
The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, while the chronic nature of asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integrated approach can significantly improve the overall well-being of asthma patients, leading to better symptom control and quality of life.
Evaluating the ‘Asthma Score’ also involves examining the availability of patient education resources. Asthma education is a cornerstone of effective self-management. Practices that provide educational materials, such as written guides, videos, or group classes, empower patients to understand their condition, identify triggers, and manage their medications effectively. The availability of these resources, particularly in multiple languages to serve the diverse population of Waterford, is a significant factor in the overall assessment.
Another important consideration is the practice's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes factors such as appointment wait times, ease of communication with the practice, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offering multiple channels for contact (phone, email, patient portals), and responding promptly to inquiries are more likely to foster a positive patient experience. This responsiveness is particularly critical for asthma patients, who may require immediate assistance in managing acute symptoms.
The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) also impacts the ‘Asthma Score’. EHRs facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information between healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that have adopted robust EHR systems, allowing for easy access to patient records and medication histories, are better positioned to provide comprehensive and coordinated asthma care. The ability to share information with specialists and pharmacies is particularly beneficial for asthma patients.
Finally, the overall ‘Asthma Score’ for Waterford, CT (ZIP code 06385) is a composite of all these factors. While the area may face challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of dedicated practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve the quality of asthma care. The practices that prioritize patient education, responsiveness, and the use of EHRs are likely to receive higher scores. The overall assessment highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to improve access to care, promote patient education, and integrate mental health services to optimize asthma management within the community.
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waterford, including the location of primary care practices, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of resources and areas where access may be limited.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like