06385, Waterford, Connecticut Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.52 percent of the residents in 06385 has some form of health insurance. 36.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.68 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 06385 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,302 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06385. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,266 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,312 health care providers accessible to residents in 06385, Waterford, Connecticut.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Waterford, CT (06385)

Waterford, Connecticut, a coastal town nestled in New London County, presents a multifaceted healthcare landscape. Evaluating the overall health score for the area, specifically focusing on primary care availability and the performance of doctors within the 06385 ZIP code, requires a nuanced understanding of several key factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can potentially strain the healthcare system, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios are dynamic and can fluctuate, national averages can provide a benchmark for comparison. Data from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) should be consulted to determine if Waterford meets or exceeds those averages. If the ratio is lower than the national average, it suggests a potentially underserved population, requiring further investigation into the specific needs of the community.

Waterford’s healthcare landscape is shaped by the presence of various medical practices, each contributing to the overall health score. Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, measured through surveys and online reviews. Practices with consistently high ratings, indicative of quality care and positive patient experiences, positively impact the overall score. Furthermore, the scope of services offered by these practices, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized treatments, is important. A practice that offers a comprehensive range of services can significantly enhance the health score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to access healthcare remotely can improve access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in geographically isolated areas, or those seeking convenient care options. The extent to which doctors in 06385 have embraced telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital patient portals, is a key indicator of the area's health score. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations likely contribute positively to the overall health score, particularly if they offer robust telehealth services that are easy to access and navigate.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Assessing the accessibility of mental health services within Waterford involves examining the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. A higher density of mental health professionals generally indicates better access to care. Furthermore, the availability of specialized mental health programs, such as those addressing substance abuse, eating disorders, or specific age groups, contributes to the overall health score. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices can also be a significant positive factor, as it can facilitate early detection and intervention.

Beyond the direct availability of mental health professionals, the community's support systems are important. This includes the existence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations. A well-developed network of mental health resources, coupled with a proactive approach to mental health awareness and education, can significantly boost the overall health score.

Specific practices within Waterford, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare systems or independent groups, should be individually evaluated. This involves researching their services, patient satisfaction, and adoption of innovative technologies. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technological advancements, and offer a wide range of services are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. A detailed review of these practices, including their staffing levels, appointment availability, and insurance acceptance, is essential for a comprehensive analysis.

The overall health score for Waterford, CT (06385) is not a static number; it's a complex evaluation. It is a product of several interconnected factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all play a crucial role. The overall score reflects the community's ability to provide accessible, comprehensive, and high-quality healthcare services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waterford, including the locations of medical practices, the distribution of mental health resources, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.