01375, Sunderland, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 01375, Sunderland, Massachusetts is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.91 percent of the residents in 01375 has some form of health insurance. 28.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.84 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 01375 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 418 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01375. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 510 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 01375, Sunderland, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sunderland, MA (ZIP Code 01375)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Sunderland, Massachusetts, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within the 01375 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, reflecting the community's access to and quality of healthcare.

Sunderland, a small town in Franklin County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its rural setting impacts access to specialized services and, potentially, the density of primary care physicians. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric, calculated by dividing the population of Sunderland by the number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the 01375 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas, is a fundamental indicator. A lower ratio suggests better access to care, while a higher ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, coupled with information from healthcare provider directories, are essential for this calculation.

Identifying standout primary care practices is another critical aspect. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient satisfaction scores, often gathered through online reviews and surveys, offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Accreditation status, such as those from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), can also indicate a commitment to quality and patient safety. Furthermore, the range of services offered, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals, contributes to a practice's overall rating. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing communication, shared decision-making, and culturally sensitive care, typically receive higher marks.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare. In a rural area like Sunderland, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to care for patients who may face transportation challenges or live a significant distance from a primary care physician. Assessing the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, is essential. The extent to which these services are utilized by patients and the ease of access to these technologies also influence the overall health score. Practices actively promoting and integrating telemedicine into their care models are likely to receive higher scores.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Sunderland is paramount. This includes assessing the presence of mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed mental health counselors, within the community or readily accessible in neighboring towns. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric medication management are all crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site therapists or collaborative care models, can significantly enhance access to mental healthcare. The presence of crisis intervention services and resources for substance abuse treatment also contribute to the overall assessment.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Sunderland, MA (01375) is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the community's ability to access and utilize quality healthcare services. It is a holistic assessment, considering the interplay of various factors. A high score would indicate a community with favorable physician-to-patient ratios, well-regarded primary care practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in one or more of these areas.

This analysis must be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians can fluctuate, telemedicine technologies are constantly evolving, and the needs of the community can shift. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are necessary to ensure that the 'Overall Health Score' accurately reflects the current state of healthcare in Sunderland. This includes monitoring changes in insurance coverage, the impact of new healthcare policies, and the evolving needs of the patient population.

Data gathering for this type of analysis can be complex. Information must be sourced from multiple locations. Gathering information from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and healthcare provider directories is essential. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Analyzing the availability of mental health services requires researching local and regional mental health providers and support organizations.

This comprehensive assessment provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in Sunderland, MA (01375). It highlights the importance of access to primary care, the role of technology in healthcare delivery, and the critical need for accessible mental health resources. The 'Overall Health Score' serves as a valuable tool for community members, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify strengths, address weaknesses, and work collaboratively to improve the health and well-being of the Sunderland community.