06078, Suffield, Connecticut Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 06078, Suffield, Connecticut is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.05 percent of the residents in 06078 has some form of health insurance. 23.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.49 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 06078 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,137 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06078. An estimate of 20 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,745 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 06078, Suffield, Connecticut.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Suffield, CT (ZIP Code 06078)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Suffield, Connecticut (ZIP code 06078) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of doctors but also the accessibility, quality, and integration of healthcare services. This analysis will produce an ‘Overall Health Score’ by assessing key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Suffield.

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

A fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the precise ratio for Suffield necessitates data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, an estimate can be derived by analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists actively practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the population of 06078. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a lower ratio could indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and managing patient loads.

Accessibility extends beyond physician numbers. Factors like insurance acceptance (Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance), office hours, and the availability of transportation to medical facilities play crucial roles. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer flexible appointment times, including evening and weekend hours, contribute to a higher accessibility score. The physical proximity of medical facilities to residential areas and the availability of public transportation also influence accessibility.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. This includes the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of innovative healthcare practices. Data from patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, as well as the practices’ own websites, offer insights into patient experiences. Factors such as wait times, the clarity of communication from healthcare providers, and the overall comfort of the office environment contribute to patient satisfaction.

Accreditation by reputable organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) signifies a commitment to quality and safety. Practices that invest in advanced medical technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and advanced diagnostic equipment, also contribute to a higher score. The implementation of evidence-based medicine and participation in quality improvement initiatives further enhance the quality of care. Practices that are known for their specialized services, such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology, also contribute to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare, particularly in geographically diverse areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills, significantly improves access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. The degree to which practices in Suffield have embraced telemedicine is an important factor in the overall health score.

Practices that offer a variety of telemedicine options, such as video conferencing, phone consultations, and secure messaging, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and technological advancement. The integration of telemedicine into the practice’s EHR system and the availability of technical support for patients further enhance its effectiveness. The adoption of telemedicine also expands the reach of specialists, allowing patients to consult with experts without having to travel long distances.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component:**

Mental health is an integral aspect of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources significantly impacts the health score. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Suffield requires evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within the ZIP code. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling centers, and support groups also contributes to the score.

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a positive indicator, as it facilitates early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The availability of crisis intervention services, such as 24/7 hotlines and emergency mental health services, is also crucial. The acceptance of insurance by mental health providers and the availability of sliding-scale fees for low-income patients further enhance accessibility.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed above, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for doctors in ZIP code 06078 and primary care availability in Suffield can be assessed. This score will be a composite of the individual scores for each of the key indicators: physician-to-patient ratio, accessibility, the quality of care provided by standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The final score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Suffield. A higher score would indicate a robust and accessible healthcare system, while a lower score would highlight areas for improvement. This assessment is a snapshot in time, and the health landscape is constantly evolving.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more visual and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Suffield, CT (06078), including physician locations, practice types, and accessibility factors, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and informative way to visualize healthcare data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.