02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.92 percent of the residents in 02359 has some form of health insurance. 23.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.12 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 02359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,937 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,390 health care providers accessible to residents in 02359, Pembroke, Massachusetts.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Pembroke, MA (ZIP Code 02359)**

Analyzing asthma care within Pembroke, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02359) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialized resources, and the integration of modern technologies. This analysis aims to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, evaluating the landscape of asthma management within the community, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. In Pembroke, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) serves as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing asthma symptoms. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric; a higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention. While precise ratios fluctuate, an assessment of the local healthcare network is vital. Are there enough PCPs to meet the needs of the population, especially considering the prevalence of asthma in children and adults? Researching the local medical group websites, insurance directories, and patient reviews can give insight into appointment availability and patient satisfaction.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are PCPs well-versed in asthma management guidelines? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans, including personalized medication regimens and trigger avoidance strategies? The Asthma Score would reflect the degree to which local PCPs consistently implement best practices. This includes regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, education on inhaler techniques, and proactive management of asthma exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices within Pembroke is crucial. Some practices may demonstrate exceptional asthma care, perhaps through specialized training of their staff, innovative patient education programs, or a strong emphasis on patient-centered care. These practices might have dedicated asthma educators, offer evening or weekend appointments, or participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma triggers and management strategies. The Asthma Score would recognize and highlight these practices as models of excellence.

The adoption of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and medication management, potentially improving access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among Pembroke PCPs is a key component of the Asthma Score. Do practices offer virtual appointments for follow-up visits or medication refills? Are they using remote monitoring devices to track patients' lung function and symptoms? The integration of telemedicine can significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of asthma care.

Mental health is inextricably linked to chronic diseases like asthma. Asthma can cause anxiety, stress, and depression, which can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score must consider the availability of mental health resources within Pembroke. Are PCPs equipped to screen patients for mental health issues? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychiatrists? Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The presence of support groups or educational programs focused on managing the psychological impact of asthma would also contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

Further, the Asthma Score should evaluate the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists. While PCPs are the first line of defense, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of specialists. The proximity of specialists and the ease of referral from PCPs are important considerations. Are there pulmonologists or allergists within Pembroke or in nearby towns, and how accessible are they? The Asthma Score would reflect the availability of these specialized resources.

The Asthma Score would also take into account the availability of asthma-related educational materials and resources within the community. This includes access to patient education programs, support groups, and educational websites or brochures. Local libraries, schools, and community centers can play a role in disseminating information about asthma triggers, management strategies, and available resources. The presence of such resources would contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score is not a static measure; it should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by local practices are necessary to ensure that the Asthma Score accurately reflects the current state of asthma management within Pembroke. This ongoing evaluation allows for identifying areas for improvement and recognizing best practices.

Finally, the Asthma Score should be presented in a clear and accessible format, making it easy for patients and healthcare providers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local asthma care system. The score could be visualized using a color-coded system or a simple rating scale. The Asthma Score serves as a tool for improving asthma management within Pembroke, encouraging collaboration among healthcare providers, and empowering patients to take control of their health.

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