02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.38 percent of the residents in 02562 has some form of health insurance. 28.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.33 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 02562 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 846 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02562. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 953 health care providers accessible to residents in 02562, Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts.

The task requires a detailed analysis, but the constraints limit the ability to provide exhaustive data. This response offers a hypothetical assessment based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends, acknowledging the limitations.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02562 & Primary Care Availability in Sagamore Beach**

Assessing the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 02562 (hypothetically encompassing the Sagamore Beach area) and the broader context of primary care availability, considers several key factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Due to the limitations of publicly available data, this analysis is based on general healthcare trends and hypothetical scenarios.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care**

A fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. In a hypothetical scenario, ZIP Code 02562, being a relatively small community, might face challenges in attracting and retaining a sufficient number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists specializing in asthma. This could necessitate residents traveling to neighboring towns or cities for specialized care, adding to the burden of managing the condition.

The availability of pediatricians is also crucial, especially considering that asthma often manifests in childhood. A shortage of pediatricians would exacerbate the problem, making it difficult for children with asthma to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The ability to secure appointments with specialists is directly related to the physician-to-patient ratio.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of physicians but also by the practices and the quality of services offered. Standout practices are characterized by several factors. These include a commitment to evidence-based medicine, the use of advanced diagnostic tools, a patient-centered approach, and a focus on patient education and self-management. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those recognized by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often demonstrate a higher level of care.

In the hypothetical scenario, a standout practice might employ certified asthma educators who provide individualized training on inhaler techniques, environmental control strategies, and asthma action plans. They might also offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing and access to specialized asthma medications. Such practices would likely have a strong emphasis on patient communication, ensuring patients understand their condition and actively participate in their treatment plans. They would also likely have a strong focus on preventative care.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption can be particularly beneficial for asthma management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially helpful for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education.

In the context of ZIP Code 02562, telemedicine could be a critical factor in ensuring access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine services can extend their reach beyond their physical location, providing care to patients who may have difficulty traveling. Telemedicine platforms can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients' symptoms, allowing physicians to intervene proactively and prevent asthma exacerbations.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

Asthma is not just a physical condition; it can also significantly impact mental health. The chronic nature of the disease, the fear of exacerbations, and the limitations it can impose on daily activities can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Integrating mental health resources into asthma care is essential for providing holistic care.

In a strong healthcare system, practices would screen patients for mental health concerns and provide access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists. They might also offer support groups or educational programs to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of living with asthma. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.

**Primary Care Availability in Sagamore Beach**

Primary care availability is the foundation of accessible healthcare. A strong primary care infrastructure is essential for the early detection and management of asthma, as well as for overall health maintenance. In Sagamore Beach, the availability of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants directly impacts residents' ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

Factors influencing primary care availability include the number of providers, the hours of operation, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the ability to accommodate new patients. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and online scheduling are often more accessible. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in clinics can also supplement primary care services, providing immediate care for acute asthma symptoms.

**Hypothetical Asthma Score and Conclusion**

Based on the above analysis, a hypothetical asthma score for ZIP Code 02562 would depend on the specific circumstances of the area. If the physician-to-patient ratio is low, telemedicine adoption is limited, and mental health resources are scarce, the score would be lower. Conversely, if there are several well-regarded practices, telemedicine is widely used, and mental health services are readily available, the score would be higher. The score would also be impacted by the availability of primary care physicians in the Sagamore Beach area.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and quality in ZIP Code 02562 and the Sagamore Beach area, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They can also incorporate data on socioeconomic factors, population demographics, and health outcomes, providing a more holistic view of the healthcare landscape.

**Take the next step. Explore the healthcare landscape of ZIP Code 02562 and Sagamore Beach with CartoChrome maps. Gain valuable insights into physician distribution, access to care, and potential areas for improvement. Start mapping today.**