02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.89 percent of the residents in 02534 has some form of health insurance. 51.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.95 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 02534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 190 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 366 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 713 health care providers accessible to residents in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Cataumet, MA (ZIP Code 02534)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Cataumet, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02534) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately assigning an “Asthma Score” based on these factors. This score will reflect the ease with which residents can access quality asthma care within their community.

Cataumet, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The population density is relatively low, which can impact access to specialized medical services. The seasonal nature of the area, with a surge in population during the summer months, adds another layer of complexity to resource allocation and patient care.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. We need to consider the types of practices available: solo practices, group practices, and affiliations with larger healthcare systems.

In Cataumet, the availability of PCPs likely leans towards the lower end of the spectrum due to the community's size. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns like Bourne or Falmouth to access a broader range of primary care options. This travel time, especially for those with acute asthma exacerbations, can significantly impact the quality of care.

The presence of urgent care facilities in the area is crucial. These facilities can provide immediate attention for asthma symptoms, acting as a bridge until a patient can see their PCP or a specialist. The hours of operation and the availability of respiratory therapists within these urgent care settings are critical factors.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone doesn't tell the whole story. The age and demographics of the population, the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma, and the availability of support staff (nurses, medical assistants) all influence the effectiveness of care delivery.

Cataumet's physician-to-patient ratio is likely influenced by the overall availability of PCPs in the region. The seasonal influx of residents will further strain the existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care during peak seasons.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" involves looking for those that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This includes practices that employ evidence-based guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education, and utilize innovative approaches to care.

Key indicators of a standout practice include:

* **Specialized Asthma Care:** Does the practice have a dedicated asthma specialist or a physician with a strong interest in asthma management?
* **Patient Education Programs:** Do they provide education on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques?
* **Asthma Action Plans:** Do they provide personalized written asthma action plans for each patient?
* **Regular Monitoring:** Do they regularly monitor patients' asthma control using validated questionnaires or other tools?
* **Collaboration:** Do they have established referral pathways to pulmonologists and other specialists when needed?

The size of Cataumet may limit the presence of specialized asthma clinics within the ZIP code. However, practices in neighboring towns might demonstrate these characteristics, offering a higher standard of care to Cataumet residents.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural and underserved areas. It can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide convenient follow-up appointments.

Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the following:

* **Virtual Visits:** Do PCPs offer virtual appointments for asthma management?
* **Remote Monitoring:** Do they utilize remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters) to track patients' lung function?
* **Tele-education:** Do they offer virtual education sessions for asthma patients?
* **Technology Infrastructure:** Is the practice equipped with the necessary technology (reliable internet, secure platforms) to support telemedicine?

Telemedicine adoption in Cataumet could be crucial for improving access to care, especially for those who have difficulty traveling or live far from their PCP. The availability of telehealth options could significantly improve the "Asthma Score".

**Mental Health Resources:**

Asthma and mental health are closely intertwined. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care.

Assessing mental health resources includes:

* **On-site Mental Health Services:** Does the practice offer on-site mental health services or referrals to mental health professionals?
* **Integration of Mental Health into Care:** Does the practice screen patients for mental health issues and integrate mental health considerations into their asthma management plans?
* **Community Resources:** Are there readily available mental health resources (counseling, support groups) within the community?

The availability of mental health resources, either within the primary care setting or through referrals, is a crucial factor in the overall Asthma Score.

**Asthma Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, Cataumet's Asthma Score is likely moderate. The small size of the community and potential limited access to specialized services and mental health resources may present challenges. However, the presence of nearby healthcare facilities and the potential for telemedicine adoption could improve the score.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Cataumet, and to make informed decisions about healthcare access, a visual representation of the data is essential. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and insightful view of the available resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points.

**Call to Action:**

Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the asthma care landscape in Cataumet and beyond. Gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions about your health and well-being. Visit CartoChrome to discover how maps can transform your understanding of healthcare accessibility.