02638, Dennis, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.89 percent of the residents in 02638 has some form of health insurance. 46.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.50 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 02638 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 227 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02638. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,212 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 760 health care providers accessible to residents in 02638, Dennis, Massachusetts.

## COPD Score Analysis: Dennis, MA (ZIP Code 02638)

The analysis below evaluates the availability and quality of primary care resources within Dennis, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02638), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health support – all crucial elements in providing comprehensive COPD care.

Dennis, a charming coastal community on Cape Cod, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The demographic, with a significant population of older adults, inherently increases the prevalence of chronic conditions like COPD. Therefore, access to quality primary care physicians and specialized respiratory services is paramount.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

Determining an exact physician-to-patient ratio for Dennis requires accessing real-time data, often proprietary to healthcare analytics firms. However, we can extrapolate based on publicly available information and regional trends. Cape Cod, in general, faces challenges related to physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to more urban areas. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained access to care, especially for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent monitoring and management.

The availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can negatively impact the quality of care. It's essential to ascertain the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the 02638 ZIP code, and their individual patient loads, to accurately assess the accessibility of care. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, is a significant indicator of a robust healthcare system capable of supporting COPD patients. Proximity to larger medical centers in neighboring towns, like Hyannis, can mitigate some of the access challenges by providing access to specialists.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying "standout" practices requires a nuanced evaluation of several factors. Patient reviews, quality metrics (such as those reported to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services), and the availability of specialized services are all important considerations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to COPD management, including offering pulmonary function testing (PFTs) on-site, providing patient education, and actively participating in disease management programs, are likely to be highly regarded.

Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, focusing on clear communication, shared decision-making, and personalized care plans, are also likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The presence of certified respiratory therapists (RRTs) within a practice can be a significant advantage, providing specialized expertise in managing COPD symptoms and optimizing respiratory function.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly enhance COPD care, particularly in areas with limited access to in-person appointments. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and virtual support groups, can improve access to care, reduce the burden of travel, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their healthcare providers.

The extent of telemedicine adoption within Dennis practices is a key factor in this assessment. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring, are better positioned to serve the needs of COPD patients. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track oxygen saturation levels or peak flow, can further empower patients to manage their condition effectively at home.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

COPD often co-exists with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive COPD care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients.

The presence of mental health professionals specializing in chronic illness or respiratory conditions is particularly beneficial. Access to support groups, both in-person and virtual, can provide valuable peer support and education for patients managing COPD and related mental health challenges. The ability to seamlessly coordinate care between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for optimal outcomes.

**Conclusion and Overall Assessment:**

A comprehensive COPD score for Dennis, MA (02638) requires gathering and analyzing specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While this analysis provides a framework for evaluation, a precise score can only be determined through detailed research.

The success of COPD management in Dennis hinges on several key elements: a sufficient number of accessible primary care physicians, the presence of specialized respiratory services, the integration of telemedicine technologies, and the availability of mental health support. By prioritizing these factors, the healthcare system in Dennis can strive to provide optimal care for individuals living with COPD.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Dennis and explore the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of specialized services.