02631, Brewster, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.82 percent of the residents in 02631 has some form of health insurance. 46.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.64 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 02631 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,486 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02631. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 803 health care providers accessible to residents in 02631, Brewster, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Brewster, MA (ZIP Code 02631)

This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in Brewster, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02631), focusing on factors relevant to asthma management and patient care. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, ultimately aiming to inform patients seeking asthma care in the area.

Brewster, a town on Cape Cod, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare. Its seasonal population fluctuations, demographic makeup, and geographic isolation influence healthcare access and delivery. This analysis seeks to understand the current landscape and identify strengths and weaknesses in the context of asthma care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility:**

A crucial aspect of asthma care is timely access to a PCP. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is essential for understanding accessibility. While specific, up-to-the-minute data is dynamic and requires constant updates, publicly available data sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide estimates. A higher physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in scheduling appointments, leading to delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments for asthma patients. The analysis will need to consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 02631 ZIP code, the estimated population of Brewster, and any documented patient load limitations. Additionally, the availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics within a reasonable distance significantly impacts access, especially during asthma exacerbations. The presence of after-hours care options is also a critical factor.

**Practice Characteristics and Asthma Management:**

The practices themselves are evaluated based on their approach to asthma management. This includes the adoption of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of asthma education programs, and the use of spirometry and other diagnostic tools. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care, including patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique, receive higher scores. Practices that actively monitor patient asthma control through regular assessments and adjust treatment plans accordingly are also prioritized.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond basic metrics. Practices excelling in asthma care often demonstrate a patient-centered approach. This includes offering extended appointment times, providing multilingual support, and actively engaging patients in their care plans. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and track asthma outcomes are also highly regarded. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with pulmonologists and other specialists to provide a multidisciplinary approach to care for complex asthma cases are given significant weight. This collaborative model ensures patients receive the most comprehensive and specialized care possible.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. The analysis evaluates the extent to which PCPs in Brewster have adopted telemedicine. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and medication refills through telemedicine platforms receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Its use in asthma management can also enhance patient adherence to treatment plans through regular virtual check-ins and educational resources.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma:**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the analysis considers the availability of mental health resources within the PCP practices or through referral networks. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and offer access to counseling, therapy, or psychiatric services receive higher scores. This integrated approach to care recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being and is crucial for holistic asthma management.

**Asthma Score Calculation:**

The "Asthma Score" is calculated based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance in asthma management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and access to appointments might carry a higher weight than the availability of specific educational materials. The score is presented on a scale, allowing for a comparative assessment of PCPs in the 02631 ZIP code. The final score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care offered by each practice.

**Data Sources and Limitations:**

This analysis relies on a combination of publicly available data sources, including online physician directories, insurance provider networks, and government health databases. Information is also gathered from practice websites and patient reviews. However, it is important to acknowledge limitations. Data accuracy and timeliness can vary. Patient reviews, while valuable, may be subjective. The analysis primarily focuses on the availability of resources and services and does not directly assess the clinical competency of individual physicians.

**Conclusion:**

The "Asthma Score" provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Brewster, MA. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis aims to assist patients in making informed decisions about their healthcare. The information presented can also be valuable for healthcare providers seeking to improve their asthma management services.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare resource distribution, and other relevant data, explore the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a detailed geographic perspective on healthcare access in Brewster and surrounding areas. Visit [Insert CartoChrome Map Link Here] to explore the map and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.