06232, Andover, Connecticut Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 06232, Andover, Connecticut is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.26 percent of the residents in 06232 has some form of health insurance. 30.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.95 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 06232 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 573 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06232. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 603 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 289 health care providers accessible to residents in 06232, Andover, Connecticut.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Andover, CT (ZIP Code 06232)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Andover, Connecticut, specifically focusing on ZIP code 06232, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall health score, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare accessibility and quality within the community. The assessment will consider publicly available data, industry reports, and local resources to arrive at a well-rounded conclusion.

The cornerstone of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. Determining the precise number of primary care physicians practicing within the 06232 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the state medical board or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can provide an initial physician count. However, this raw number alone is insufficient. It's crucial to differentiate between actively practicing physicians and those who may be retired or have changed specialties.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. This ratio reflects the availability of primary care providers relative to the population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Determining the population of 06232 is readily achievable through the U.S. Census Bureau. Dividing the estimated population by the number of actively practicing primary care physicians yields the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio can then be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in Andover.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the community necessitates evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the presence of board-certified physicians, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) further indicates a commitment to quality.

Telemedicine adoption has rapidly transformed healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among primary care practices in 06232 is essential. This involves determining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a critical factor influencing telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Andover requires identifying the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes assessing whether these professionals accept insurance, offer sliding-scale fees, or participate in community outreach programs. The proximity to mental health facilities, such as hospitals or outpatient clinics, is also a factor. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, educational programs, and crisis intervention services contributes to the overall mental health infrastructure of the community.

The overall health score for Andover, CT (06232) will be a composite measure, incorporating the factors discussed above. A weighted scoring system can be employed, assigning different weights to each factor based on its relative importance. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio might carry a significant weight, reflecting its direct impact on access to care. Patient satisfaction scores and telemedicine adoption could also be assigned substantial weights, reflecting their influence on quality and convenience. The availability of mental health resources should be considered a crucial component of the overall score, reflecting the importance of mental well-being.

To arrive at a final score, each factor would be evaluated and assigned a numerical value. These values would then be multiplied by their respective weights and summed to produce the overall health score. This score can then be compared to benchmarks, such as state or national averages, to assess the relative health of the community. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare resources and community needs evolve.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Andover reveals a complex picture. While the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires further investigation, the presence of quality practices and the adoption of telemedicine are encouraging signs. The availability of mental health resources will be a key determinant of the overall health score. Further research into these areas is necessary to provide a more definitive assessment. This analysis suggests that while Andover may have adequate healthcare, it is vital to continue to assess and improve the availability and quality of care.

Ultimately, understanding the health landscape of a community requires a comprehensive approach. This analysis has provided a framework for evaluating the key factors influencing healthcare access and quality in Andover, CT (06232). The use of data visualization tools can enhance this understanding.

To further explore the health landscape of Andover, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, mental health facilities, and other relevant data points, consider utilizing the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome.