02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.09 percent of the residents in 02703 has some form of health insurance. 37.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.69 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 02703 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02703. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,697 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,195 health care providers accessible to residents in 02703, Attleboro, Massachusetts.

## COPD Score Analysis: Attleboro, MA (ZIP Code 02703)

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care and COPD management within the Attleboro, MA ZIP code 02703, focusing on factors relevant to patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The goal is to assess the availability and quality of care, highlighting key aspects like physician density, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This will culminate in a "COPD Score" analysis reflecting the overall suitability of the local healthcare environment for COPD patients.

Attleboro, like many communities, faces the challenge of balancing healthcare resources with the needs of its population. COPD, a chronic respiratory illness, requires ongoing management, including regular check-ups, medication adherence, and access to specialized care when necessary. The availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) are paramount in this context, serving as the first point of contact and the coordinators of comprehensive COPD care.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in ZIP code 02703 is complex, requiring up-to-the-minute data that is often proprietary. However, publicly available resources, combined with local anecdotal information, can provide an estimate. A healthy PCP-to-patient ratio allows for adequate appointment availability and sufficient time for each patient. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment frequency, and potentially compromised care.

Researching the specific number of PCPs actively practicing within the 02703 ZIP code is essential. This number should be cross-referenced with the estimated population of Attleboro to derive a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio. Furthermore, it is crucial to assess the types of practices available. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer advantages, such as extended hours, shared resources, and access to a broader range of specialists. Affiliations with larger healthcare systems can also provide access to advanced diagnostic tools and specialized pulmonary care.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their operational characteristics. Key factors to evaluate include patient reviews, the availability of extended hours (including evenings and weekends), and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs streamline patient data management, improve communication between providers, and facilitate better care coordination. Practices that are consistently praised for their patient-centered approach, compassionate care, and effective communication are highly valued, especially by patients managing chronic conditions like COPD.

Furthermore, the presence of dedicated COPD management programs within a practice is a significant advantage. These programs may include specialized education for patients, support groups, and regular monitoring of lung function. Practices offering pulmonary function testing (PFT) on-site eliminate the need for patients to travel to separate facilities, making it easier to monitor their condition and adjust treatment plans. The availability of respiratory therapists within the practice also enhances the quality of care, providing expert guidance on breathing techniques and medication management.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with chronic conditions. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and monitoring of vital signs, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is especially beneficial for COPD patients, who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue, making travel difficult.

Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices is crucial. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices to track patients' lung function and other relevant health indicators? Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care, which can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients.

**Mental Health Resources and COPD:**

The link between COPD and mental health is well-established. COPD patients often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges due to the chronic nature of their illness and the impact it has on their daily lives. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in assessing the suitability of a healthcare environment for COPD patients.

Investigating the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals is essential. Are there on-site therapists or counselors? Do practices have established relationships with mental health professionals in the community? The ability to access mental health support is crucial for managing the emotional and psychological aspects of COPD, improving overall well-being and treatment outcomes.

**The "COPD Score" Analysis:**

Based on the factors outlined above, a "COPD Score" can be assigned to the healthcare environment in ZIP code 02703. This score would be a composite metric, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The higher the score, the more favorable the healthcare environment is for COPD patients.

For example, a high score would be awarded to areas with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices with positive patient reviews and dedicated COPD programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health services. Conversely, a low score would indicate a shortage of PCPs, limited access to specialized care, minimal telemedicine integration, and a lack of mental health support.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a chronic condition like COPD, requires informed decision-making. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care within Attleboro's 02703 ZIP code. By considering the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, patients can make more informed choices about their healthcare providers and ensure they receive the comprehensive care they need.

**Take the next step!**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Attleboro and visualize the location of healthcare providers, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you identify PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare resources in your area. Explore the possibilities and empower yourself with the knowledge to make the best healthcare decisions.