02790, Westport, Massachusetts Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.70 percent of the residents in 02790 has some form of health insurance. 41.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.18 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 02790 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,741 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02790. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,900 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,142 health care providers accessible to residents in 02790, Westport, Massachusetts.

Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02790 & Primary Care Availability in Westport

Westport, Massachusetts (ZIP code 02790), presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly concerning asthma management and primary care availability. This analysis delves into the current state of physician resources, telemedicine adoption, and associated mental health support, culminating in a data-driven assessment.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. Westport's population, estimated to be around 16,000, necessitates a sufficient number of primary care physicians (PCPs) to meet community needs. A generally accepted benchmark suggests a PCP-to-population ratio of approximately 1:1,500. Therefore, Westport ideally requires around 10-11 PCPs to adequately serve its residents. Assessing the actual number of practicing PCPs within the 02790 ZIP code, and their patient load, is crucial. This data, readily obtainable through state medical boards and insurance provider directories, forms the bedrock of our analysis. Shortages in this area would inevitably impact asthma care, as PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution and accessibility of these PCPs are equally important. Are practices geographically dispersed throughout Westport, ensuring easy access for all residents, including those in more rural areas? Are practices accepting new patients, and what is the average wait time for appointments? These factors directly influence a patient's ability to receive timely care, a critical element in asthma management. Delaying treatment can lead to exacerbations and diminished quality of life. Furthermore, the presence of specialized asthma care providers, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable commuting distance is essential. While not directly primary care, their availability complements the overall asthma care ecosystem.

Several practices within Westport may stand out for their commitment to comprehensive asthma care. Identifying these "standout practices" requires evaluating several criteria. Do they utilize evidence-based asthma guidelines, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Are they proactive in patient education, empowering individuals to self-manage their condition effectively? Do they offer asthma action plans tailored to individual needs? Do they provide convenient appointment scheduling and follow-up care? Practices excelling in these areas contribute significantly to improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption rate within Westport's primary care practices significantly impacts accessibility. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. Analyzing the extent of telemedicine integration, including the platforms used and the types of services offered, is critical. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more flexible and accessible care options.

Asthma often co-exists with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with the potential for unpredictable exacerbations, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within or in close proximity to primary care practices is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Do practices offer in-house mental health services, or do they have established referral pathways to qualified mental health professionals? Are therapists and counselors familiar with the unique challenges faced by individuals with asthma? Addressing the mental health needs of asthma patients is essential for overall well-being and improved disease management.

The analysis should also consider insurance coverage. The affordability of healthcare is a significant barrier for many individuals. Assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is vital. Are there options for patients with limited financial resources? Are there programs available to assist with medication costs? Ensuring access to affordable care is paramount to achieving equitable asthma management.

The overall "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP code 02790 will be derived from a weighted combination of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare environment with sufficient primary care availability, easy access to specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, and affordable care options. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine integration, or inadequate mental health support.

This data-driven assessment allows for a clear understanding of the current state of asthma care within Westport. This information can be utilized to identify areas for improvement, advocate for increased resources, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with asthma.

To gain a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, practice demographics, and accessibility factors, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Westport.