02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.32 percent of the residents in 02764 has some form of health insurance. 36.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.25 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 02764 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 935 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02764. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,849 health care providers accessible to residents in 02764, North Dighton, Massachusetts.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02764 and Primary Care Availability in North Dighton**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning chronic conditions like asthma, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the resources available to manage asthma within the ZIP Code 02764 (North Dighton, Massachusetts) and its surrounding areas. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify potentially standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and consider the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally suggests greater availability of appointments and more individualized care. Determining the exact ratio requires data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, insurance provider directories, and potentially local hospital systems. Publicly available data might offer estimates, but the most accurate assessment would involve a detailed analysis of the active physician workforce within the designated area, accounting for specialties and practice settings.

Within 02764, and the broader North Dighton area, primary care availability is a critical factor. Asthma management often begins with a PCP, who can diagnose, initiate treatment, and provide ongoing monitoring. Limited access to PCPs could delay diagnosis, hinder timely treatment adjustments, and potentially lead to more frequent asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations. The presence of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics can supplement primary care, but they should not be considered a complete substitute, particularly for chronic disease management.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. Practices that excel in asthma care often possess specific attributes. These may include: dedicated asthma educators, certified asthma specialists (e.g., pulmonologists), robust patient education programs, and readily available peak flow meters and nebulizers. Furthermore, practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can improve communication, medication management, and appointment scheduling, all beneficial for patients managing asthma.

Telemedicine adoption has gained prominence, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients. It allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. It can also be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically remote areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption within 02764 involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals, as well as the types of telehealth platforms utilized (e.g., video conferencing, phone calls).

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma care, but they are vital. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals can provide more holistic care. This may involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health organizations, or readily available resources for patients experiencing emotional distress related to their asthma.

The assessment of mental health resources should also consider the availability of support groups and educational programs specifically designed for asthma patients and their families. These resources can provide valuable peer support, coping strategies, and education about managing the psychological aspects of the condition.

Analyzing specific practices within 02764 requires a granular approach. This would involve reviewing practice websites, patient reviews, and potentially contacting practices directly to inquire about their asthma management protocols, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists in the area would be a significant positive indicator. Similarly, the availability of respiratory therapists within local hospitals or clinics would enhance the overall level of care.

Furthermore, assessing the accessibility of pharmacies within 02764 is important. Easy access to pharmacies ensures that patients can readily obtain their asthma medications. Factors to consider include the number of pharmacies, their operating hours, and their proximity to patient residences.

The presence of community health centers or federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in or near 02764 could also improve access to care, especially for underserved populations. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including primary care, mental health services, and pharmacy services, on a sliding fee scale.

In conclusion, evaluating the asthma score for doctors in 02764 and primary care availability in North Dighton requires a comprehensive examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A detailed analysis of these factors, along with considerations of pharmacy access, community health centers, and the presence of specialized asthma care providers, would provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape and its capacity to support asthma patients.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 02764 and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Gain a clearer understanding of healthcare accessibility and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.