02332, Duxbury, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02332, Duxbury, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.23 percent of the residents in 02332 has some form of health insurance. 28.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.25 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 02332 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02332. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,749 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,502 health care providers accessible to residents in 02332, Duxbury, Massachusetts.

**COPD Score Analysis: Primary Care in Duxbury, MA (ZIP Code 02332)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Duxbury, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02332), is crucial for understanding the landscape of care for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This analysis, framed as a “COPD Score,” considers factors directly impacting COPD patient care, including physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Duxbury, a key component of the COPD Score, is a critical indicator. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), allows for estimations. Duxbury, being a relatively affluent and suburban community, typically benefits from a higher-than-average physician-to-population ratio compared to more rural or underserved areas. This generally suggests better access to PCPs, a vital advantage for COPD patients who require regular check-ups, medication management, and pulmonary function testing. However, this ratio alone doesn’t paint the full picture.

The quality of available primary care is paramount. Practices vary considerably in their approach to COPD management. Some practices may have a dedicated focus on respiratory health, employing nurses or respiratory therapists with specialized COPD training. These practices would score higher on our COPD Score. Other practices might integrate advanced technologies, such as remote monitoring devices that allow patients to track their symptoms and vital signs, providing valuable data for physicians to adjust treatment plans proactively. This proactive approach is particularly beneficial for COPD patients, who often experience exacerbations.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to consult with a PCP remotely, through video conferencing or phone calls, offers substantial advantages for COPD patients. Telemedicine reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or who experience shortness of breath with exertion. It also allows for more frequent monitoring of symptoms and medication adherence. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet are integral to COPD management. COPD is a chronic illness that can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health professionals, are essential. This integration facilitates early detection and treatment of mental health issues, improving overall patient outcomes and quality of life. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing stress and anxiety would also positively influence the COPD Score.

Identifying standout practices in Duxbury requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Information on physician specializations, patient reviews, and practice accreditations are valuable. Practices with board-certified pulmonologists or those affiliated with larger health systems, such as Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth, would likely have better access to specialized respiratory care and resources. The presence of dedicated COPD education programs for patients, including information on self-management techniques, medication adherence, and smoking cessation support, is a major plus.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of ancillary services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs provide supervised exercise, education, and support to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Practices that refer patients to these programs, or that offer them in-house, would contribute to a higher score.

The COPD Score isn't a static number. It’s a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Factors like changes in insurance coverage, the introduction of new medications or therapies, and the adoption of innovative technologies can all impact the score. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

In summary, the COPD Score for primary care in Duxbury, MA (ZIP Code 02332) reflects a combination of factors. A high score indicates a robust primary care system with ample physician availability, practices dedicated to COPD management, embracing telemedicine, and offering integrated mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

To better visualize and understand the spatial distribution of primary care practices, physician density, and the availability of essential services within Duxbury and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping.