02170, Quincy, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02170, Quincy, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.95 percent of the residents in 02170 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.94 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 02170 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,037 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02170. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,337 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,499 health care providers accessible to residents in 02170, Quincy, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Quincy, MA (ZIP Code 02170)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care within Quincy, Massachusetts, specifically focusing on the 02170 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. We must assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their specific expertise in asthma management, the utilization of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all while considering the overall physician-to-patient ratio. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and its capacity to effectively serve individuals with asthma.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Quincy, and particularly within the 02170 ZIP code, is a crucial factor influencing access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and potentially, a less personalized approach to patient management. Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau must be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, however, is only a starting point. It is essential to further investigate the distribution of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers within the specific geographic boundaries of 02170.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective asthma management. The identification of practices with a strong focus on asthma care is paramount. This involves scrutinizing the credentials and specializations of the physicians within those practices. Board certifications in internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics are fundamental. Further, the practices’ commitment to asthma-specific training and continuing medical education (CME) programs, such as those offered by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), is a critical indicator. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management, including regular patient education, the development of personalized asthma action plans, and the use of evidence-based treatment protocols, deserve recognition.

Standout practices in Quincy, within the 02170 ZIP code, are those that excel in providing comprehensive asthma care. These practices often possess a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially, asthma educators into their care teams. They typically offer a range of services, including spirometry testing, peak flow meter instruction, and allergen testing. Furthermore, these practices actively participate in community outreach programs, educating the public about asthma triggers and management strategies. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless communication between healthcare providers and patients is also a significant advantage.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer patients greater flexibility and convenience. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This is especially beneficial for patients who live in areas with limited access to healthcare or who have difficulty traveling to appointments. The availability of telehealth services, including remote monitoring devices that transmit patient data to physicians, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is increasingly recognized as essential. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can have a significant impact on a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect quality of life. Therefore, practices that offer access to mental health professionals, either within the practice or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling services, and coordinating care between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health specialists.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying practices that collaborate with mental health providers. This collaboration can take various forms, including shared electronic health records, joint care planning, and regular communication between providers. The presence of a dedicated mental health professional within a primary care practice can significantly improve patient access to mental health services. Furthermore, practices that provide educational materials about the link between asthma and mental health, and that promote self-care strategies, are valuable assets to the community.

In conclusion, the quality of asthma care within the 02170 ZIP code in Quincy, Massachusetts, depends on a confluence of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the expertise of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all critical components. The identification of standout practices that prioritize comprehensive, patient-centered care is essential for improving outcomes for individuals with asthma. A thorough analysis, incorporating data from multiple sources and a deep understanding of the local healthcare landscape, is necessary to accurately assess the asthma care ecosystem.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Quincy, MA, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps.