02770, Rochester, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02770, Rochester, Massachusetts is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.49 percent of the residents in 02770 has some form of health insurance. 27.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.67 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 02770 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,403 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02770. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 960 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,074 health care providers accessible to residents in 02770, Rochester, Massachusetts.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Rochester, MA (ZIP Code 02770)

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of asthma care within Rochester, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02770), focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area. We aim to assess the overall "Asthma Score" for the region, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of effective asthma management.

The foundation of good asthma care rests on readily available primary care. In Rochester, primary care availability is a critical factor. The town’s size and population density, coupled with its proximity to larger urban centers, influence the distribution and accessibility of primary care physicians. A robust primary care network is crucial, as these doctors often serve as the first point of contact for asthma management, providing initial diagnoses, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. We must consider the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, factoring in their specialties (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics) to ensure comprehensive coverage for all age groups.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised care. Analyzing the ratio within Rochester provides insight into the potential strain on the existing healthcare system. This analysis should also account for the patient demographics, including the prevalence of asthma within the population, and the availability of specialists like pulmonologists or allergists, who can provide more specialized care. The proximity to larger hospitals and medical centers, such as those in New Bedford, can also influence the overall accessibility of specialized asthma care.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the quality of care offered. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the adoption of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and actively participate in asthma-related community outreach programs should be recognized. Further investigation should include the availability of in-office spirometry testing, asthma action plan development, and the integration of asthma educators or nurses within the practice.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, especially in rural or underserved areas. The ability to access virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management can significantly improve asthma control. Evaluating the extent to which primary care practices in Rochester utilize telemedicine platforms is essential. This includes assessing the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters), the ease of access for patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Telemedicine can also improve access to specialists located outside of the immediate area.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is vital. This analysis should assess the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals to external providers. It should also evaluate the practices' awareness of the connection between asthma and mental health, and their willingness to address these issues proactively. This could include screening for mental health conditions, providing access to counseling or therapy, and coordinating care with mental health professionals.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Rochester, MA (02770) is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates good access to care, high-quality practices, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. A lower score suggests areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and strengthening the integration of mental health services. The final score should reflect the current state of asthma care within the community, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape.

This analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health on asthma outcomes. Factors such as housing quality, environmental conditions, and socioeconomic status can significantly influence asthma control. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving health equity. Data on these factors, such as the prevalence of mold or allergens in homes, and the availability of resources to address these issues, should be included in the analysis.

Furthermore, ongoing monitoring is crucial. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services can impact the "Asthma Score" over time. Regular updates to this analysis are necessary to ensure that the information remains relevant and useful. This could involve periodic surveys of primary care practices, analysis of patient data, and monitoring of healthcare trends.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Rochester, MA (02770) is a complex measure that reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of individuals living with asthma in Rochester, MA.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographical distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps provide an intuitive and informative way to visualize the healthcare landscape in Rochester, enhancing your understanding of asthma care accessibility.