01966, Rockport, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 01966, Rockport, Massachusetts is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.92 percent of the residents in 01966 has some form of health insurance. 45.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.53 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 01966 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 974 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01966. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,525 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,504 health care providers accessible to residents in 01966, Rockport, Massachusetts.

**COPD Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 01966 & Primary Care in Rockport**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care services, especially concerning Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) management, within Rockport, Massachusetts (ZIP code 01966) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the physician landscape, assess the resources available, and evaluate the overall capacity to address the needs of COPD patients in this coastal community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. Determining the exact ratio necessitates identifying all practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 01966 ZIP code and comparing that number to the total population of Rockport. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, combined with U.S. Census Bureau population estimates, would provide the raw numbers. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, could suggest potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. The presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists or those with a specific focus on respiratory illnesses, further impacts the overall score. Their availability, either within Rockport or in nearby communities like Gloucester or Salem, directly influences the quality of COPD management.

Identifying standout practices requires investigating their service offerings, patient reviews, and the adoption of best practices. Practices that actively participate in COPD-specific programs, such as the COPD Foundation's COPD Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) recognition, would score highly. These programs emphasize coordinated care, patient education, and proactive management strategies. Reviewing online patient feedback platforms, like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, is crucial. Patient testimonials offer insights into physician communication, empathy, and the overall patient experience, all vital for individuals managing a chronic condition like COPD.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms significantly enhances access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring tools, would receive a higher score. This is especially relevant in Rockport, where seasonal variations in population and potential transportation challenges could impact access to in-person appointments.

Mental health resources are an essential component of COPD care. The chronic nature of the disease, coupled with its impact on breathing and daily activities, can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), within the primary care practices or readily accessible within the community is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through established referral networks, will receive a higher score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals ensures a holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of COPD.

Specific examples of practices and resources would be beneficial, but due to the dynamic nature of healthcare and the limitations of this analysis, specific practice names and details are withheld. However, the methodology for identifying these resources would involve a thorough online search, reviewing insurance provider directories, and consulting with local community health organizations.

The overall "COPD Score" for doctors in 01966 would be a composite score, weighted based on the factors discussed. Physician-to-patient ratio, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of COPD-specific programs would be the primary determinants. A higher score would indicate a greater capacity to provide comprehensive and effective COPD care. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or strengthening mental health support services.

Assessing primary care availability in Rockport requires evaluating the accessibility of services for all residents, not just those with COPD. This includes considering factors such as insurance acceptance, office hours, and the availability of after-hours care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer extended hours, and provide options for urgent care would contribute to a higher overall score.

The community's overall health infrastructure also plays a role. The presence of a local hospital or urgent care facility with respiratory care capabilities is essential. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, support groups, and patient education resources further enhances the quality of care. Collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and support groups creates a robust ecosystem for COPD management.

The final score would be a snapshot of the current situation. Regular reassessment is essential, as healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the emergence of new treatment modalities all necessitate periodic evaluations.

The analysis is limited by the availability of public data. A comprehensive assessment would involve direct contact with local practices, interviews with patients, and a deeper dive into the specific services offered. The use of a geographic information system (GIS) to visualize the distribution of physicians and resources would be incredibly valuable.

For a detailed, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Rockport and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. They can provide an interactive and insightful view of the information discussed.