02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.44 percent of the residents in 02119 has some form of health insurance. 53.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.72 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 02119 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,251 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 64 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02119. An estimate of 29 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,002 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,621 health care providers accessible to residents in 02119, Roxbury, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02119 & Primary Care in Roxbury

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 02119, which encompasses parts of Roxbury, requires a multifaceted approach. An “Asthma Score” in this context isn’t a formal medical metric, but rather a conceptual framework to assess the healthcare landscape’s responsiveness to a chronic condition like asthma. This involves evaluating access to PCPs, their capacity to manage asthma, and the supporting resources available within the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. In 02119, the ratio of PCPs to residents significantly impacts access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying asthma management and exacerbating symptoms. Data on the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 02119 is essential, ideally broken down by practice type (e.g., solo practices, group practices, community health centers). This information is crucial for understanding the overall accessibility of primary care. A high physician-to-patient ratio can be a red flag, especially for a vulnerable population like those with asthma.

Evaluating the quality of primary care extends beyond sheer numbers. We must examine the practices themselves. Are they equipped to manage asthma effectively? This involves assessing their familiarity with asthma guidelines, their utilization of spirometry (a lung function test), and their capacity to provide patient education on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and inhaler technique. Standout practices would be those that proactively address asthma management. This includes practices that offer specialized asthma clinics, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively follow up with patients to monitor their condition.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant factor in enhancing healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their doctors remotely, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups or medication refills. In the context of asthma, telemedicine can facilitate more frequent monitoring of symptoms, timely intervention in case of exacerbations, and improved patient adherence to treatment plans. Examining the telemedicine adoption rate among PCPs in 02119 is crucial, as is the availability of telehealth services specifically tailored for asthma management.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is a critical component of our “Asthma Score” analysis. Do PCPs in 02119 have access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, either within their practice or through referral networks? Do they screen patients for mental health concerns? Do they provide education on stress management and coping mechanisms? The presence and integration of mental health services are vital for comprehensive asthma care.

Further investigation is needed to determine the specific practices that excel in asthma management. This involves gathering data on patient outcomes, such as the frequency of asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Public health data, patient surveys, and physician interviews can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of individual practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, through quality improvement initiatives and participation in asthma-related research, should be recognized.

The role of community health centers (CHCs) is particularly important in Roxbury. CHCs often serve a diverse population and provide a range of services, including primary care, behavioral health, and social services. Assessing the capacity of CHCs in 02119 to manage asthma is essential. This includes evaluating their staffing levels, the availability of specialized asthma services, and their ability to coordinate care with other healthcare providers and community organizations. CHCs often play a crucial role in providing care to underserved populations, making their performance in asthma management particularly significant.

Beyond the individual practices, the broader healthcare infrastructure in Roxbury plays a vital role. This includes the availability of specialty care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, who can provide specialized expertise in asthma management. The proximity and accessibility of hospitals and emergency rooms are also important, particularly for patients experiencing asthma exacerbations. The presence of community resources, such as asthma support groups and educational programs, can also contribute to improved patient outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact asthma management. Poverty, housing conditions, and environmental factors can all exacerbate asthma symptoms. Understanding the prevalence of these factors within 02119 is crucial for developing targeted interventions. This might involve collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies to address social determinants of health.

The information gathered should be synthesized into a comprehensive assessment, identifying areas of strength and areas for improvement. This could include recommendations for enhancing access to care, improving the quality of asthma management, and addressing the social determinants of health. The ultimate goal is to create a healthcare landscape that is more responsive to the needs of individuals with asthma.

The “Asthma Score” analysis, therefore, is not a simple ranking, but a complex evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem. It requires a deep understanding of the local context, the specific needs of the patient population, and the resources available to support asthma management. By carefully examining these factors, we can work towards creating a healthier community for everyone.

To visualize this complex data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02119 and Roxbury, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, access to care, and the distribution of resources, allowing for a more informed analysis and strategic planning.