06092, West Simsbury, Connecticut Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 06092, West Simsbury, Connecticut is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.05 percent of the residents in 06092 has some form of health insurance. 17.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.84 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 06092 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,564 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06092. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 571 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,183 health care providers accessible to residents in 06092, West Simsbury, Connecticut.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: West Simsbury (ZIP Code 06092)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for West Simsbury, Connecticut (ZIP code 06092), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians and related healthcare resources. The assessment incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice highlights, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, offering a comprehensive view of the community's healthcare landscape.

West Simsbury, a suburban community, presents a unique healthcare profile. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical indicator of community health. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric, reflects the accessibility of care. A favorable ratio indicates a greater likelihood of residents securing timely appointments and personalized attention. Conversely, a higher ratio can suggest longer wait times and potential strain on existing healthcare resources.

Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio requires examining the number of active primary care physicians within the 06092 ZIP code and comparing it to the population of West Simsbury. Publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the US Census Bureau are essential for this calculation. A ratio below the national average is generally considered positive, indicating better access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available online through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, communication, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also indicate a commitment to quality and patient-centered care.

Examining the range of services offered by local primary care practices is also essential. Do they offer comprehensive care, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and acute care? The availability of on-site lab services and specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, can enhance the convenience and efficiency of care. The presence of bilingual staff can be particularly important in a diverse community, ensuring effective communication and access to care for all residents.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to access healthcare remotely offers significant benefits, including convenience, reduced travel time, and increased access for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health and well-being. The availability of mental health services within the community is a key factor in the overall health score. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health professionals in the area. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, through co-located therapists or referral networks, is particularly beneficial, as it can facilitate early intervention and improve access to care.

Furthermore, the availability of community-based mental health resources, such as support groups, crisis hotlines, and educational programs, can significantly enhance the mental health landscape. Collaboration between primary care practices and these community resources is crucial for providing comprehensive and coordinated care.

The presence of specialized healthcare facilities, such as urgent care centers and specialized clinics, also influences the overall health score. Urgent care centers provide convenient access to care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, reducing the burden on primary care physicians and emergency rooms. Specialized clinics, such as those focused on women's health, diabetes management, or physical therapy, can offer targeted care for specific health needs.

Another factor to consider is the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is essential for ensuring that residents can access care regardless of their financial situation. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are more likely to serve a diverse population.

The geographic distribution of primary care practices within West Simsbury is also important. Are practices evenly distributed throughout the ZIP code, or are there areas with limited access to care? This can be assessed using geographic information system (GIS) tools, which can map the locations of practices and analyze their proximity to residential areas.

In summary, the overall health score for West Simsbury (06092) is a multifaceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and range of services offered by primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the presence of specialized facilities, insurance coverage, and geographic accessibility. A high score indicates a community with robust access to high-quality healthcare services, while a lower score may indicate areas for improvement.

To gain a more granular and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare landscape in West Simsbury, consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations provided by CartoChrome. These resources can provide a deeper dive into the factors discussed above, offering a powerful tool for understanding and improving community health.