02056, Norfolk, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02056, Norfolk, Massachusetts is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.30 percent of the residents in 02056 has some form of health insurance. 13.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.13 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 02056 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,946 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02056. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,214 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,089 health care providers accessible to residents in 02056, Norfolk, Massachusetts.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, disproportionately affects specific populations and geographic areas. Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for primary care physicians, is crucial for managing asthma effectively. This analysis focuses on the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02056 (Norfolk, Massachusetts) and the broader primary care resources available within Norfolk County, evaluating these factors through an "Asthma Score" lens. The goal is to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing asthma management.

The foundation of asthma care rests on accessible and qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can provide an estimated ratio for Norfolk. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, could negatively impact asthma management due to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment adjustments.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Outstanding practices often demonstrate several key features. They might offer extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day sick visit availability, making it easier for asthma patients experiencing acute symptoms to receive prompt attention. Electronic health record (EHR) systems are crucial, enabling seamless information sharing between specialists, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers, improving care coordination. Practices that integrate asthma education programs, including inhaler technique training and personalized action plans, are particularly valuable. These features contribute to a higher "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in modern healthcare, and its adoption rate within Norfolk’s primary care practices is a key consideration. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of patients' asthma symptoms. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and potentially improved adherence to treatment plans, boosting their "Asthma Score."

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Chronic illnesses like asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health resources, such as on-site therapists, partnerships with mental health providers, or referral systems, are better equipped to provide holistic care. These resources can help patients cope with the emotional burden of asthma, improving their overall well-being and potentially leading to better asthma control. The availability of these resources significantly contributes to a practice's "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" for a practice or the overall healthcare system within Norfolk would be a composite score, weighing these factors. A high score would reflect a robust primary care infrastructure with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices with extended hours, telemedicine integration, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would indicate potential weaknesses, such as a shortage of PCPs, limited access to care, and a lack of integrated mental health support.

Specific examples within ZIP code 02056 and Norfolk County are difficult to provide without direct access to proprietary healthcare data. However, publicly available resources can be utilized. The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine provides a directory of licensed physicians, allowing for basic searches within a specific ZIP code. Online reviews from patients, though subjective, can offer insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction. The websites of local hospitals and healthcare systems can provide information on the services offered, including telemedicine options and mental health resources.

Analyzing these resources allows for a preliminary assessment. For example, identifying the number of PCPs practicing within 02056 and comparing it to the population size can give a preliminary estimate of the physician-to-patient ratio. Investigating the websites of local practices can reveal whether they offer telemedicine options, extended hours, or integrated mental health services. Reviewing patient testimonials can provide insights into the patient experience.

The "Asthma Score" framework is a dynamic tool. It is not a static rating but a process of continuous evaluation. Regular updates are needed to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as new practices opening, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources.

This analysis is not a definitive ranking. It is a framework for understanding the healthcare resources available for asthma management within Norfolk and 02056. Access to more detailed data, including practice-specific information and patient outcomes, would allow for a more precise and comprehensive "Asthma Score."

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Norfolk and 02056, we recommend utilizing the power of visual data. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for spatial analysis of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant factors. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential areas of need.