02655, Osterville, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02655, Osterville, Massachusetts is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 02655 has some form of health insurance. 49.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.41 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 02655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 400 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,308 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 490 health care providers accessible to residents in 02655, Osterville, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Osterville, MA (ZIP Code 02655)

This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for primary care physicians in Osterville, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02655), focusing on factors relevant to asthma management and patient care. The score is not a numerical value but rather a qualitative evaluation based on the observed availability of resources and practices within the community. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine utilization, and integration of mental health support, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

Osterville, a charming coastal community, presents a unique environment for healthcare delivery. The seasonal influx of residents and tourists can strain local resources, impacting access to care. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, requires consistent monitoring and management, making the availability and quality of primary care physicians particularly vital.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio & Access to Care:**

Determining an exact physician-to-patient ratio requires access to real-time data, which is often proprietary. However, publicly available information, such as the Massachusetts Department of Public Health data and online physician directories, provides a reasonable estimate. The analysis suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio in Osterville might be somewhat impacted by the seasonal population fluctuations. This could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely asthma management, especially during peak allergy seasons or when exacerbations occur. Access to care is further complicated by factors like insurance coverage and transportation limitations, which can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those with asthma.

**Standout Practices and Asthma Management Strategies:**

Identifying "standout" practices involves evaluating their commitment to asthma care protocols. This includes assessing the use of evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Practices demonstrating a strong commitment to asthma management often incorporate the following:

* **Comprehensive Asthma Action Plans:** Providing individualized written plans for patients, outlining daily medication regimens, trigger avoidance strategies, and action steps for worsening symptoms.
* **Peak Flow Meter Monitoring:** Educating patients on the use of peak flow meters for self-monitoring and early detection of airway obstruction.
* **Regular Follow-up Appointments:** Scheduling frequent follow-up appointments, particularly for newly diagnosed patients or those with poorly controlled asthma.
* **Patient Education:** Offering educational resources and training on proper inhaler technique, trigger identification, and asthma management strategies.
* **Collaboration with Specialists:** Establishing clear referral pathways to pulmonologists and allergists when necessary.

Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as asthma awareness campaigns or school-based asthma education, would also score favorably.

**Telemedicine Adoption & its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly in a community where access to care might be challenging. Its adoption in Osterville is a key factor in this assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Providing remote consultations for medication adjustments, symptom management, and routine follow-up appointments.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Utilizing wearable devices or remote monitoring systems to track patient symptoms, medication adherence, and environmental triggers.
* **Education and Support:** Delivering educational materials and support groups through online platforms.

The successful implementation of telemedicine requires several elements: reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and integration with existing electronic health records (EHR) systems. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the burden of travel for patients, and potentially improve asthma control.

**Mental Health Resources Integration:**

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is crucial for comprehensive asthma management. This includes:

* **Screening for Mental Health Conditions:** Regularly screening patients for symptoms of anxiety and depression.
* **On-site Mental Health Professionals:** Employing or partnering with mental health professionals to provide counseling and support.
* **Referrals to Mental Health Specialists:** Establishing clear referral pathways to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.
* **Education on Stress Management Techniques:** Educating patients on stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises.

Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are better equipped to address the holistic needs of individuals with asthma, potentially improving their overall quality of life and asthma control.

**Overall Asthma Score Assessment:**

Based on the available information, the "Asthma Score" for primary care in Osterville is considered moderate. While the community likely has dedicated physicians, the seasonal population influx and potential access challenges could affect care. The integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, along with the implementation of evidence-based asthma management protocols, are critical for improving the score. The practices that actively engage in these areas will be most effective in providing comprehensive asthma care.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the geographical context of healthcare is crucial for effective planning and resource allocation. Accessing detailed information about physician locations, patient demographics, and environmental factors can significantly improve asthma management strategies. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of this data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Osterville and surrounding areas.

**Take Action:**

Explore the power of visual data analysis. Visit CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community and how they relate to asthma management. Visualize the data, identify gaps in care, and advocate for improvements in asthma management strategies.