01474, West Townsend, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 01474, West Townsend, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.04 percent of the residents in 01474 has some form of health insurance. 27.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.40 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 01474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 01474. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 308 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 559 health care providers accessible to residents in 01474, West Townsend, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: West Townsend, MA (ZIP Code 01474)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in West Townsend, Massachusetts, specifically within the 01474 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide an 'Overall Health Score' based on these key indicators.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in the accessibility of primary care. In West Townsend, determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the 01474 ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available databases, insurance provider directories, and local healthcare organization websites will need to be consulted to gather this data. This data will then be compared to the estimated population of West Townsend to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. The national average serves as a benchmark. If West Townsend's ratio is significantly higher than the national average, it could indicate a shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potentially, a decline in overall health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio, while positive, needs further examination. The quality of care, the distribution of physicians within the community, and the availability of specialized services all contribute to a complete picture.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. This involves assessing factors beyond just the number of physicians. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., chronic disease management, preventative screenings), and the adoption of innovative technologies play a significant role. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, demonstrate a commitment to quality, and actively engage with the community would score higher in this evaluation. These practices often serve as models for others, contributing to a healthier community overall.

Telemedicine adoption is another key indicator of healthcare accessibility and modernization. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations, online portals, and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access for residents, particularly those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can potentially improve health outcomes by facilitating more frequent and timely interactions between patients and providers. The extent of telemedicine integration within the 01474 ZIP code will be assessed, considering the types of services offered, the ease of use for patients, and the integration with existing healthcare systems.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services within West Townsend is critical. This includes identifying the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area, as well as the presence of mental health clinics and support groups. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, will also be evaluated. A community with robust mental health resources is better equipped to address a wide range of health challenges and promote overall well-being.

The overall health score will be derived from a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will each contribute to the final score. The weighting of each factor will be determined based on its perceived impact on overall health outcomes. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption if the ratio is significantly above the national average.

Data gathering will be a critical process. The accuracy and completeness of the information gathered will directly impact the validity of the overall health score. This involves consulting multiple sources, verifying information, and staying updated on any changes within the healthcare landscape. The process is dynamic, requiring continuous monitoring and updates to reflect the evolving healthcare environment.

The analysis will also consider any unique characteristics of the West Townsend community that might influence healthcare access and outcomes. This includes demographic factors, socioeconomic indicators, and any specific health challenges prevalent within the community. These contextual factors will provide a more nuanced understanding of the overall health landscape.

The final 'Overall Health Score' will represent a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment in West Townsend. It will provide a valuable benchmark for the community, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This score can be used by healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents to make informed decisions, advocate for resources, and improve the overall health and well-being of the community.

The assessment will also address any potential disparities in healthcare access within the community. This includes examining whether certain populations, such as low-income individuals or those with limited English proficiency, face greater barriers to care. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents.

In conclusion, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the overall health landscape in West Townsend. By meticulously assessing the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' can be derived. This score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the community's health strengths and weaknesses.

If you are interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of West Townsend, or any other location, and exploring the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing geographical data, including healthcare data. They offer a visual and interactive way to explore the healthcare environment and identify areas where resources are most needed.