02564, Siasconset, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02564, Siasconset, Massachusetts is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02564 has some form of health insurance. 36.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.67 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 02564 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 59 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02564. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 23 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21 health care providers accessible to residents in 02564, Siasconset, Massachusetts.

## COPD Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Siasconset (ZIP Code 02564)

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in Siasconset, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02564) requires a multi-faceted approach. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in effective COPD management, especially in a geographically isolated community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of accessibility. Siasconset, being a small, primarily residential community on Nantucket Island, likely faces challenges in maintaining a high physician-to-patient ratio. The island's seasonal population fluctuations further complicate this metric. A low ratio could lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which can negatively impact COPD patients. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater access to care, allowing for more frequent check-ups, timely interventions, and improved disease management. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau are essential to calculating this ratio accurately.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is vital. Practices that prioritize COPD management often demonstrate specific characteristics. These include physicians with specialized training in pulmonology or internal medicine, access to pulmonary function testing (PFT) equipment, and a commitment to patient education. A practice demonstrating a high level of patient satisfaction, as evidenced by online reviews and patient testimonials, is a strong indicator of quality care. Furthermore, practices actively participating in COPD-specific research or clinical trials are often at the forefront of advancements in treatment and management. The identification of these practices can be achieved through online searches, referrals from local hospitals, and collaboration with patient advocacy groups.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in Siasconset. The island's remoteness can create barriers to accessing care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living far from the few primary care facilities. Telemedicine offers a potential solution by enabling virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and medication management. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more accessible and convenient care for COPD patients. This involves assessing the availability of telehealth platforms, the training of physicians in telehealth protocols, and the integration of telehealth services into the practice's workflow. Examining the availability of remote monitoring devices like pulse oximeters and the ability of the practice to integrate data from these devices into the patient's electronic health record is also essential.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of COPD management. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes the presence of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists or psychiatrists, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine check-ups. Furthermore, practices should be knowledgeable about support groups and community resources that can provide emotional support and coping strategies for COPD patients. Assessing the availability of these resources is a critical factor in evaluating the quality of care.

Analyzing the specific landscape of primary care in Siasconset (02564) requires a deeper dive into the available resources. This involves identifying the specific primary care practices within the ZIP code and gathering information on their services, staffing, and patient outcomes. Publicly available data, such as information from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, can provide insights into physician credentials and specialties. Additionally, contacting local hospitals, patient advocacy groups, and community health centers can provide valuable information on the availability of specialized services and support programs.

The assessment should also consider the availability of specialized services, such as pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These programs provide structured exercise, education, and support to help COPD patients improve their lung function, manage their symptoms, and enhance their quality of life. The presence of these programs within the community or readily accessible through referral is a significant indicator of comprehensive COPD care.

Further investigation into the availability of respiratory therapists and other allied health professionals is essential. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in managing COPD, providing education on breathing techniques, administering medications, and monitoring patients' respiratory status. The presence of these professionals within the primary care practices or readily accessible through referral enhances the quality of care.

Finally, the assessment should consider the patient perspective. Gathering feedback from COPD patients through surveys, interviews, or focus groups can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system. This feedback can highlight areas of strength and weakness in the delivery of care and inform strategies for improvement.

In conclusion, evaluating the COPD care landscape in Siasconset (02564) requires a holistic approach that considers physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the availability of specialized services. A thorough analysis of these factors will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and inform efforts to improve the quality of care for COPD patients.

To visualize and explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and their accessibility in Siasconset and surrounding areas, we encourage you to leverage the power of **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of specialized services, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the COPD care landscape.