02664, South Yarmouth, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02664, South Yarmouth, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.22 percent of the residents in 02664 has some form of health insurance. 55.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.08 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 02664 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02664. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 585 health care providers accessible to residents in 02664, South Yarmouth, Massachusetts.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts the quality of life for those affected. Access to quality healthcare, particularly primary care, is crucial for managing asthma effectively. This analysis focuses on assessing the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 02664 (South Yarmouth, Massachusetts) concerning asthma care, evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, and highlighting specific aspects of care delivery.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially strain resources and limit access. In South Yarmouth, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians, including internal medicine, family medicine, and general practitioners, needs careful consideration. Data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with population data from the U.S. Census Bureau, provides a baseline. However, this data alone doesn't fully capture the reality of access. The number of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is also a critical factor. Patients with asthma often require specialist referrals for optimal management. The presence of these specialists in or near South Yarmouth directly influences the accessibility of specialized asthma care.

Primary care availability in South Yarmouth is a multifaceted issue. While a sufficient number of primary care physicians might exist, their ability to accept new patients is paramount. Practices with open appointment slots and short wait times are more accessible. Conversely, practices with closed panels or long wait times create barriers to care. The availability of after-hours care, including urgent care clinics and telehealth options, further enhances accessibility. These alternative care settings provide crucial support for asthma patients who experience sudden exacerbations outside of regular office hours.

Standout practices within South Yarmouth demonstrate excellence in asthma management. These practices typically incorporate several key elements. Firstly, they have a proactive approach to asthma education, empowering patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their condition. This includes providing detailed information about asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques. Secondly, these practices often utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, ensuring that patients receive the most up-to-date and effective care. This may involve adhering to guidelines from organizations like the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Thirdly, these practices often employ a team-based approach to care, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare delivery, especially in areas like South Yarmouth, where geographic barriers might exist. Telehealth consultations offer convenience and can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The availability of virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and asthma education sessions can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that embrace telemedicine often utilize secure video conferencing platforms and patient portals to facilitate virtual interactions. The integration of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and spirometers, further enhances the effectiveness of telehealth in asthma management.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked component of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within or near primary care practices is crucial. Integrated mental health services, where mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians, are particularly beneficial. This integrated approach allows for early identification and treatment of mental health issues, leading to better overall outcomes for asthma patients. The availability of support groups and educational resources focused on managing the psychological aspects of asthma also contributes to improved mental well-being.

Specific practices within South Yarmouth should be assessed based on these factors. Identifying practices that excel in patient education, evidence-based treatment, team-based care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration is vital. This assessment should also consider patient satisfaction surveys, which provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Reviewing online patient reviews and testimonials can further illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of different practices.

The overall asthma score for ‘doctors in ZIP Code 02664’ and ‘primary care availability in South Yarmouth’ is a composite measure. It reflects the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care appointments, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates better access to care and a more comprehensive approach to asthma management. This score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving healthcare trends and the availability of new data.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape in South Yarmouth. However, a deeper understanding requires a comprehensive geographic analysis. To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to mental health services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas with limited access, and making informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.