02719, Fairhaven, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02719, Fairhaven, Massachusetts is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.70 percent of the residents in 02719 has some form of health insurance. 38.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.80 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 02719 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,974 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02719. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,396 health care providers accessible to residents in 02719, Fairhaven, Massachusetts.

The analysis of COPD care within ZIP code 02719, encompassing the town of Fairhaven, Massachusetts, requires a multifaceted approach, examining not just the presence of physicians but also the quality and accessibility of care. This assessment will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of effective COPD management.

Fairhaven, a coastal community, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The demographic makeup, including a significant population of older adults, increases the prevalence of chronic respiratory conditions like COPD. Therefore, the availability of skilled primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists is paramount. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step in understanding the potential strain on the healthcare system. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, could lead to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine can provide insights into the number of licensed physicians practicing in the area, but this data alone doesn't fully capture the picture.

The presence of pulmonologists, specifically, is critical. While PCPs are the first line of defense, managing stable COPD, pulmonologists are essential for diagnosing complex cases, managing exacerbations, and providing specialized treatments like pulmonary rehabilitation. The geographic proximity of specialists to patients is a key factor in the quality of care. Long travel distances can deter patients from seeking necessary consultations and treatments.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews and ratings, available on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction with physicians. Another crucial aspect is the practice's commitment to evidence-based COPD management. This includes adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), and the use of appropriate medications, including inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Practices that offer comprehensive care, including smoking cessation programs, are particularly valuable in the management of COPD.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. In Fairhaven, telemedicine can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring devices, are likely to provide a higher level of convenience and accessibility for their patients. However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like reliable internet access and patient comfort with technology.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in COPD management, but they are crucial. COPD can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services into their COPD care plans are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care. This might involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or educational programs on coping with chronic illness. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, can also play a vital role in providing emotional support and reducing feelings of isolation.

Specific data regarding the physician-to-patient ratio in 02719 is challenging to obtain precisely without a comprehensive analysis of all practicing physicians and their patient panels. However, a general assessment can be made by comparing the number of physicians listed in public directories with the population of Fairhaven. The presence of a hospital, such as St. Luke's Hospital in nearby New Bedford, can suggest a greater availability of specialists. Reviewing the websites of local practices can reveal information about their services, including telemedicine adoption and mental health support.

Standout practices would likely be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, evidenced by positive patient reviews, adherence to GOLD guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that offer smoking cessation programs, pulmonary rehabilitation, and integrated mental health services would be particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is likely to be present to some degree, given the broader trend in healthcare. However, the extent of its implementation would vary between practices. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals would be considered leaders in this area.

Mental health resources may vary. Some practices might have in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, while others might rely on referrals. The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, would also be a positive indicator.

In conclusion, the quality of COPD care in Fairhaven, MA (02719) is likely to be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A thorough evaluation of these factors is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement. To gain a visual representation of the distribution of healthcare resources in Fairhaven and surrounding areas, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. Explore the geographical distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.