02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts COPD Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the COPD Score in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 02760 has some form of health insurance. 31.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.58 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 02760 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,824 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02760. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts.

The analysis presented here assesses the quality of COPD care available within ZIP code 02760, encompassing North Attleboro, Massachusetts, focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. This evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services, all crucial elements in comprehensive COPD management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in North Attleboro is a critical starting point. Accurate data on this ratio requires accessing up-to-date information from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and the US Census Bureau. The ideal ratio is difficult to pinpoint, as it varies based on the age and health profile of the population. A higher ratio of patients per physician can indicate potential access challenges. A lower ratio, while potentially beneficial, does not guarantee superior care; it merely suggests that more physicians are available per patient.

The landscape of primary care practices in North Attleboro presents a diverse range of options. Some practices are part of larger healthcare systems, such as those affiliated with hospitals in nearby cities. These larger systems often have more resources, including specialists, diagnostic equipment, and integrated electronic health records (EHRs). Other practices are smaller, independent operations. These may offer a more personalized approach to care, with established patient-physician relationships. Evaluating the quality of care requires examining the practice's infrastructure, including the availability of pulmonary function testing (PFT) capabilities, which are essential for diagnosing and monitoring COPD.

Standout practices within the 02760 ZIP code often demonstrate a commitment to patient education and disease management. This includes providing educational materials on COPD, offering smoking cessation programs, and proactively managing exacerbations. These practices typically implement evidence-based guidelines for COPD treatment, including the use of inhaled bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and, when appropriate, long-term oxygen therapy. They also prioritize patient-centered care, actively involving patients in their treatment plans and providing support for self-management.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing COPD care. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas. The availability of telehealth services allows for regular check-ins, medication management, and symptom monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine often utilize secure platforms for video consultations and patient portals for communication and access to health information.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of COPD care. COPD can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer or facilitate access to mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This may involve having mental health professionals on staff, partnering with local mental health providers, or providing referrals to appropriate resources. Screening for depression and anxiety, and addressing these issues proactively, is essential for improving patient outcomes.

The analysis of COPD care in 02760 must also consider the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that combines exercise training, education, and support to help patients with COPD improve their quality of life. The presence of such programs in the area, or the availability of referrals to programs in nearby communities, is a strong indicator of quality care.

Assessing the practices within 02760, a comprehensive review would involve examining the practice's website and patient reviews. These reviews often provide insights into the patient experience, including wait times, communication with providers, and the overall quality of care. Additionally, reviewing the practice's accreditation status and its participation in quality improvement initiatives can provide valuable information about its commitment to providing high-quality care.

The availability of specialist care is another important consideration. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for COPD patients, access to pulmonologists is essential for more complex cases or for patients who require specialized interventions. The proximity of pulmonologists and the ease with which primary care physicians can refer patients to these specialists are important factors in assessing the quality of care.

The availability of support groups and community resources also plays a role. Support groups provide a forum for patients to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. Access to these resources can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and enhance their overall well-being. The presence of local COPD support groups and the extent to which practices promote these resources are important indicators of quality care.

The overall assessment of COPD care in 02760 must consider all these factors. It is a complex evaluation that requires a multifaceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and specialist care all contribute to the overall quality of care.

If you're interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape in North Attleboro, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment by visualizing the data.