02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.20 percent of the residents in 02746 has some form of health insurance. 72.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.65 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 02746 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,951 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02746. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,060 health care providers accessible to residents in 02746, New Bedford, Massachusetts.

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP Code 02746, encompassing parts of Fall River, Massachusetts, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective asthma management. Furthermore, the context of New Bedford's primary care landscape significantly influences the accessibility and quality of care for residents in the area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In 02746, the availability of primary care physicians, including those specializing in internal medicine and family practice, directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions for asthma exacerbations. Conversely, a higher ratio generally indicates greater accessibility, though this must be considered alongside the quality of care. The primary care availability in New Bedford, which borders 02746, also plays a significant role. Patients may seek care across city lines, impacting the overall demand on local resources.

Assessing the quality of care involves evaluating several elements. This includes the experience and expertise of the physicians, the availability of specialized equipment for diagnosing and monitoring asthma, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Outstanding practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively. They may offer comprehensive asthma action plans, personalized to each patient's needs, and provide education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. Furthermore, the integration of patient-centered care, considering individual needs and preferences, is a hallmark of high-quality asthma management.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma care, particularly in improving access for patients in underserved areas. Its adoption in 02746 and the surrounding New Bedford area is a key factor in this analysis. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. This can be especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, or those requiring frequent follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and accessible care, potentially reducing the frequency of hospitalizations and emergency room visits. The success of telemedicine adoption hinges on factors like reliable internet access, patient digital literacy, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing workflows.

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Chronic illnesses like asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is crucial. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This can include access to therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists specializing in managing the psychological aspects of chronic respiratory conditions. The integration of mental health services can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life.

A comprehensive asthma score for doctors in 02746 must consider the specific challenges faced by the community. This includes factors like socioeconomic status, environmental pollution, and access to healthy food options, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practices operating within these contexts need to demonstrate a nuanced understanding of these social determinants of health and tailor their services accordingly. This may involve collaborating with community organizations, providing culturally sensitive care, and advocating for policies that address environmental hazards.

The specific practices within 02746 and the broader New Bedford area require individual assessment. While a generalized analysis can highlight key factors, a detailed evaluation necessitates examining individual practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data. This includes information on physician credentials, services offered, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resources. Examining the practices' adherence to national guidelines for asthma management, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), is essential.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in 02746 requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The primary care landscape in New Bedford significantly influences the overall accessibility and quality of care. A high-quality asthma score reflects a commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition. The best practices will demonstrate a commitment to patient education, provide access to telemedicine, and integrate mental health resources.
If you'd like a more detailed, visually driven assessment of healthcare access and asthma management in 02746 and New Bedford, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic, interactive way to visualize healthcare data, providing valuable insights into physician locations, resource distribution, and areas with the greatest need.