Health Scores Near 01516, Douglas, Massachusetts
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The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 01516, Douglas, Massachusetts is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 98.95 percent of the residents in 01516 has some form of health insurance. 22.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.98 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 01516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,327 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 991 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 931 health care providers accessible to residents in 01516, Douglas, Massachusetts.
Health Scores in 01516, Douglas, Massachusetts
| Asthma Score | 92 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 57 |
| Provider Score | 97 |
| Hospital Score | 51 |
| Travel Score | 63 |
| 01516 | Douglas | Massachusetts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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: Doctors in ZIP Code 01516 and Primary Care in Douglas, MA**
Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 01516 (Douglas, Massachusetts) and its primary care landscape, providing an “Asthma Score” assessment based on factors critical to asthma management. This score isn't a single number but a composite understanding of the healthcare ecosystem's strengths and weaknesses concerning asthma care.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**
The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible primary care. A key indicator is the physician-to-patient ratio within Douglas. Publicly available data, like that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, must be consulted to determine this ratio. A low ratio (more patients per doctor) can indicate limited access, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. The score here hinges on the availability of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors and internal medicine specialists. The number of available appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and the presence of after-hours care options all contribute to the score.
Douglas's geographic size and population density also influence primary care accessibility. Rural areas may face greater challenges than more densely populated areas. The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics can supplement primary care, but they should not be considered a complete substitute. The Asthma Score evaluates the availability of these alternative care options and their integration with primary care practices. The ideal situation is a network of accessible primary care providers supported by readily available urgent care facilities for acute exacerbations.
**Standout Practices and Asthma Management Protocols**
Identifying practices demonstrating excellence in asthma management is crucial. This involves evaluating the implementation of evidence-based asthma guidelines, like those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Practices should have standardized protocols for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and patient education.
Key indicators of a high-scoring practice include:
* **Regular Pulmonary Function Testing (PFTs):** Ensuring routine lung function assessments to monitor asthma control.
* **Medication Management:** Proper prescription and monitoring of asthma medications, including inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and biologics when appropriate.
* **Asthma Action Plans:** Providing personalized written action plans for patients to manage their asthma symptoms effectively.
* **Patient Education:** Educating patients on triggers, proper inhaler technique, and recognizing and managing asthma exacerbations.
* **Regular Follow-up Appointments:** Scheduling regular check-ups to assess asthma control and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Researching local practices through online reviews, patient testimonials, and professional recommendations can provide valuable insights. Look for practices that actively engage in patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive asthma care.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**
Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. The Asthma Score considers the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Douglas. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication refills via telehealth platforms receive a higher score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas.
Telehealth can also facilitate:
* **Remote Monitoring:** Using wearable devices or home spirometry to track lung function and symptoms.
* **Medication Adherence:** Providing reminders and support to ensure patients take their medications as prescribed.
* **Education and Support:** Offering virtual asthma education classes and support groups.
The Asthma Score assesses the availability and integration of telemedicine services within local primary care practices. Practices that effectively leverage telehealth technologies to improve asthma management receive a higher score.
**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management**
The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the Asthma Score evaluates the availability of mental health resources within the Douglas healthcare system.
The score considers:
* **On-site Mental Health Services:** The presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) within primary care practices or nearby.
* **Referral Networks:** The ability of primary care physicians to readily refer patients to mental health specialists.
* **Integration of Mental Health into Asthma Care:** The practice of screening patients for mental health conditions and addressing these needs as part of their asthma management plan.
* **Access to Support Groups:** The availability of asthma-specific support groups or mental health support groups in the community.
Practices that prioritize mental health and offer accessible resources receive a higher score. This demonstrates a holistic approach to asthma management, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.
**Conclusion**
The Asthma Score for doctors in ZIP code 01516 and primary care availability in Douglas is a dynamic assessment. It is based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare system that is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and effective asthma care.
To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Douglas and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, we encourage you to explore **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for analyzing healthcare data and identifying areas of strength and areas needing improvement.
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