02067, Sharon, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.97 percent of the residents in 02067 has some form of health insurance. 21.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.06 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 02067 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,175 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 46 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02067. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts.

## COPD Score Analysis: Sharon, MA (02067)

This analysis provides a COPD Score assessment for physicians practicing within the 02067 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability and related resources within Sharon, Massachusetts. The COPD Score is a theoretical construct, evaluating the capacity of the local healthcare infrastructure to effectively manage and support patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It considers factors like physician accessibility, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharon, not a simple numerical ranking.

The foundation of effective COPD management is accessible primary care. In Sharon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the COPD Score. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of COPD symptoms. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, along with information from insurance provider directories, is used to estimate the PCP-to-patient ratio in Sharon. This ratio is then assessed against benchmarks, considering both the overall population and the estimated prevalence of COPD within the town, to determine the impact on the COPD Score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. The COPD Score considers the presence of standout practices. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive COPD care, including proactive screening for at-risk individuals, thorough patient education on disease management, and the implementation of evidence-based treatment protocols. Factors like the availability of spirometry testing within the practice, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and care coordination, and the presence of dedicated respiratory therapists or nurses specializing in pulmonary care contribute positively to the score. Identifying these standout practices involves reviewing publicly available practice information, patient reviews, and, where possible, direct observation of practice operations.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities can significantly improve the COPD Score. Telemedicine reduces the burden of travel for patients, especially those with limited mobility or severe respiratory symptoms. It also allows for more frequent monitoring of patients' conditions, enabling timely interventions and preventing exacerbations. The analysis assesses the extent to which physicians in Sharon are utilizing telemedicine platforms for COPD management, including virtual check-ups, medication management, and remote monitoring of vital signs. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine will receive a higher score in this area.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are vital for COPD patients. COPD can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The COPD Score takes into account the availability of mental health services within the local healthcare system. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who are familiar with the psychological challenges faced by COPD patients. The analysis also considers the degree to which primary care practices integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their COPD care plans. Practices that actively address the mental health needs of their patients will contribute positively to the overall score.

The level of collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers also impacts the score. Effective COPD management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists. The COPD Score assesses the degree to which these providers collaborate to ensure seamless care for patients. This includes the use of shared EHR systems, regular communication between providers, and participation in care coordination programs. Practices that actively foster collaboration and communication will be rewarded with a higher score.

Another important aspect is patient education. COPD patients need to be well-informed about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. The COPD Score assesses the extent to which physicians in Sharon provide patient education resources, such as educational materials, support groups, and access to respiratory therapists. Practices that prioritize patient education and empowerment will receive a higher score.

The analysis also considers the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that helps COPD patients improve their lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. The COPD Score assesses the availability of these programs within the local healthcare system and the degree to which physicians refer their patients to these programs. Practices that actively promote pulmonary rehabilitation will contribute positively to the score.

The COPD Score is a dynamic assessment. It is not a static ranking but rather a reflection of the current healthcare landscape in Sharon. The score can change over time as healthcare practices evolve, new technologies are adopted, and new resources become available. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Overall, the COPD Score for physicians in ZIP Code 02067 and primary care availability in Sharon reflects a complex interplay of factors. While this analysis provides a general overview, understanding the specific nuances of each practice and resource requires a deeper dive. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharon, and to visually explore the distribution of healthcare resources and patient demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps.