02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 02535 has some form of health insurance. 41.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.34 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 02535 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02535. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 668 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 02535, encompassing Chilmark, Massachusetts, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) resources and related factors. This evaluation aims to provide insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of asthma management for residents, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support.

Chilmark, a geographically isolated community on Martha's Vineyard, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. The relatively small population and seasonal fluctuations in residents significantly impact the healthcare landscape. Analyzing the "Asthma Score" requires a nuanced understanding of the resources available, the patient population, and the specific needs of individuals with asthma.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Chilmark, the limited number of primary care physicians necessitates careful consideration. While precise physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and can vary based on data sources, the island's overall healthcare infrastructure often experiences strain, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized asthma care.

The availability of primary care physicians is paramount for asthma management. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring. They are responsible for developing personalized asthma action plans, prescribing medications, and educating patients on self-management techniques. The quality of primary care in Chilmark directly influences the effectiveness of asthma control within the community.

Standout practices within the area, if any, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes providing thorough patient education, offering convenient appointment scheduling, and actively monitoring patients' asthma control. Practices that utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma management and collaborate effectively with specialists, such as pulmonologists, would likely achieve superior patient outcomes. Identifying and highlighting these practices is essential for guiding patients toward the best possible care.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Chilmark. The geographical isolation of the community can be a barrier to accessing timely medical attention. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, facilitating medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education sessions. Practices that embrace telemedicine can enhance patient convenience, improve access to care, and reduce the need for unnecessary in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions like asthma.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked component of asthma management, but they are crucial. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health support into their asthma care programs demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. This may involve offering on-site counseling services, providing referrals to mental health professionals, or incorporating mental health screenings into routine patient evaluations.

The "Asthma Score" for Chilmark should reflect the integration of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a sufficient number of PCPs, readily available telemedicine options, practices that prioritize patient education and self-management, and integrated mental health support. Conversely, a low score would suggest limited access to care, a lack of telemedicine adoption, and insufficient attention to the psychological aspects of asthma.

Evaluating the specific practices within ZIP Code 02535 requires a deep dive into their individual capabilities. This would involve assessing their staffing levels, appointment availability, the types of services they offer, and their commitment to patient education and support. It also involves gathering patient feedback to understand their experiences with the healthcare system.

The assessment of mental health resources is also critical. This involves examining the availability of mental health professionals in the area, the extent to which PCPs screen for mental health conditions, and the referral pathways that are in place. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their patients are more likely to achieve positive asthma outcomes.

The seasonal fluctuations in the population of Chilmark present a unique challenge. The healthcare system must be prepared to handle a surge in demand during the peak tourist season. This may require increased staffing levels, extended clinic hours, and the utilization of telemedicine to manage the influx of patients.

Overall, the "Asthma Score" for Chilmark, Massachusetts, depends on a complex interplay of factors. It's not merely about the number of physicians, but also about the quality of care they provide, their utilization of technology, and their commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their patients.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Chilmark and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, enabling a more comprehensive assessment of asthma care accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 02535.