02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.77 percent of the residents in 02072 has some form of health insurance. 36.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.60 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 02072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,797 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 55 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02072. An estimate of 21 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,099 health care providers accessible to residents in 02072, Stoughton, Massachusetts.

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Stoughton, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02072) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the specific asthma management strategies employed by local practices, and the integration of technology and mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, ultimately offering insights into the quality and accessibility of asthma care within the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Stoughton is a crucial factor. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, combined with information from insurance providers, can provide a baseline understanding of this ratio. However, it is important to recognize that this is just a starting point. The actual impact of the ratio depends on factors such as the physician's specialization (e.g., pulmonologist vs. general practitioner), the efficiency of the practice, and the prevalence of asthma within the local population.

Primary care availability is another critical consideration. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for asthma patients. Their ability to diagnose, manage, and refer patients to specialists is essential. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the types of insurance they accept, and the geographic distribution of their practices within Stoughton. Areas with limited access to PCPs may experience delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to poorer asthma outcomes.

Examining specific practices requires a deeper dive. We can start by identifying practices with a strong reputation for asthma care. This can be achieved by analyzing patient reviews, consulting with local advocacy groups, and reviewing information from professional organizations like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management, such as regularly updating their protocols to reflect current guidelines, are likely to provide superior care.

Furthermore, the use of technology, particularly telemedicine, is an important factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online patient portals are better positioned to provide convenient and proactive care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly, and examining insurance coverage for telehealth services.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but their importance cannot be overstated. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. Assessing this aspect involves examining the practice's referral network, the availability of mental health screenings, and the integration of mental health considerations into asthma management plans.

The evaluation should also consider the specific asthma management strategies employed by each practice. This includes the use of standardized asthma action plans, patient education materials, and regular assessments of asthma control. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, empower them with knowledge about their condition, and provide ongoing support are likely to achieve better outcomes. We can gather this information by reviewing practice materials, interviewing patients, and examining the practice's approach to patient communication.

Standout practices in Stoughton are likely to be those that excel in multiple areas. These practices will likely have a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, strong primary care availability, and a well-established reputation for asthma care. They will likely embrace technology, integrate mental health resources, and implement evidence-based asthma management strategies. The practices will also prioritize patient education and engagement, fostering a collaborative approach to care.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources within the context of asthma care is critical. Asthma, as a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the physical symptoms and the potential for exacerbations, can lead to anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life. Therefore, practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and provide access to mental health support are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. This can involve on-site therapists, referrals to external mental health providers, or the integration of mental health screenings into routine asthma assessments.

In conclusion, the asthma care landscape in Stoughton presents a complex picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, technology adoption, and integration of mental health resources all play a crucial role in determining the quality and accessibility of care. A comprehensive assessment of these factors, coupled with an examination of specific practice characteristics, is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

To delve deeper into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and patient demographics, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive visualizations that can provide valuable insights into the spatial aspects of asthma care in Stoughton and beyond.