02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 02748 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.00 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 02748 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,010 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02748. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,202 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,635 health care providers accessible to residents in 02748, South Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02748 and Primary Care Availability in South Dartmouth**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 02748 (South Dartmouth, Massachusetts) and its primary care landscape, with a particular emphasis on asthma management. We'll explore physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this ratio within 02748 provides a critical understanding of access. Publicly available data, such as the Dartmouth Atlas of Health Care, can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the ZIP code or serving its residents. Further research is needed to accurately assess the patient population served by these physicians. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, may signal potential access challenges, especially for chronic conditions like asthma, where consistent care is essential. Conversely, a high ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves evaluating various factors, including patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care often employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, nurses, respiratory therapists, and possibly pulmonologists. They may also offer patient education programs, asthma action plans, and regular follow-up appointments to monitor asthma control. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key indicator. EHRs facilitate efficient communication, medication management, and the tracking of patient progress.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several benefits for asthma patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, medication refills, and virtual consultations. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care models can potentially improve patient access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the quality of telemedicine services is also important. This includes evaluating the technology used, the training of healthcare providers in telehealth delivery, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among individuals with asthma, and these factors can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a critical aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral networks with mental health professionals are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing brief counseling, or facilitating access to specialized mental health care.

Beyond the immediate care setting, the broader healthcare ecosystem in South Dartmouth plays a vital role. The presence of urgent care facilities, specialty clinics (e.g., pulmonology), and local pharmacies contribute to the overall accessibility and quality of asthma care. The availability of after-hours care options is particularly important for managing asthma exacerbations. Furthermore, the degree of collaboration and communication between different healthcare providers can significantly impact patient outcomes. Practices that actively participate in care coordination initiatives, such as shared care plans or electronic data exchange, are better positioned to provide seamless and effective asthma management.

Evaluating the quality of asthma care also necessitates an examination of patient education and self-management support. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing patients with the knowledge and skills to manage their asthma effectively, often achieve better outcomes. This includes educating patients about their medications, triggers, and asthma action plans. Regular follow-up appointments and personalized care plans are crucial.

Assessing the availability of specific asthma medications and devices within local pharmacies is also important. Ensuring that patients have timely access to their prescribed medications and devices, such as inhalers and peak flow meters, is essential for asthma control. Collaboration between primary care practices and local pharmacies can facilitate medication management and improve patient adherence.

The social determinants of health also play a crucial role. Factors such as socioeconomic status, housing conditions, and environmental exposures can significantly impact asthma outcomes. Practices that are aware of these factors and address them through community outreach programs or partnerships with social service agencies are better equipped to provide equitable asthma care. This may involve addressing housing-related triggers, such as mold or dust mites, or providing assistance with accessing affordable medications.

Data privacy and security are paramount. Any assessment of healthcare data must adhere to strict privacy regulations, such as HIPAA. The use of de-identified data and secure data storage practices is essential to protect patient information.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in 02748 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. The analysis should also consider patient education, medication access, social determinants of health, and data privacy. The goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current system and to inform strategies for improving asthma care for the residents of South Dartmouth.

To further enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02748, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, offering a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying potential disparities. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in South Dartmouth.