02019, Bellingham, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02019, Bellingham, Massachusetts is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.82 percent of the residents in 02019 has some form of health insurance. 26.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.44 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 02019 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,193 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02019. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,322 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,087 health care providers accessible to residents in 02019, Bellingham, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bellingham, MA (ZIP Code 02019)

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of Bellingham, Massachusetts, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services within the 02019 ZIP code. We will assess the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources to formulate an overall health score for the community. This score will reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare available to residents.

The cornerstone of any community's health is the accessibility of primary care physicians. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial starting point. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering preventative care and timely treatment. Data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and publicly available healthcare databases, will be used to estimate the current physician-to-patient ratio within the 02019 ZIP code. This ratio will be benchmarked against state and national averages to determine whether Bellingham residents have adequate access to primary care physicians.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Bellingham requires evaluating several factors. These include patient satisfaction ratings, which can be gleaned from online reviews and patient surveys. We will also consider the practice's adoption of technology, such as electronic health records and patient portals, which can improve efficiency and communication. Additionally, the practice's commitment to preventative care, as evidenced by its screening programs and health education initiatives, will be evaluated. Practices demonstrating a strong focus on patient-centered care and positive health outcomes will be recognized as leaders in the community.

The rise of telemedicine has dramatically reshaped healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Bellingham is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer greater flexibility and access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those seeking follow-up appointments. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the primary care landscape will significantly influence the overall health score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources within the community is critical. This analysis will examine the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within Bellingham and the surrounding areas. We will also assess the availability of mental health support groups, counseling services, and crisis intervention resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as the availability of on-site therapists or referral programs, will be considered a positive factor. A community with robust mental health resources will contribute to a higher overall health score.

The availability of specialized care, while not the primary focus of this analysis, is indirectly relevant. The proximity of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, to Bellingham residents can impact their access to comprehensive healthcare. Examining the referral patterns of primary care physicians and the ease with which patients can access specialized care will provide further insight into the overall health landscape.

Another factor to consider is the demographic makeup of Bellingham. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community can help to tailor healthcare services to meet specific needs. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more geriatric care services, while a community with a high prevalence of diabetes may need more diabetes management programs.

The presence of community health initiatives and programs also plays a role. This includes initiatives focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise programs, nutrition education, and smoking cessation programs. The availability of these resources can empower residents to take control of their health and prevent chronic diseases. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a comprehensive health ecosystem.

The overall health score will be a composite measure, taking into account all the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted, with a lower ratio (indicating better access) contributing to a higher score. The quality of primary care practices, as determined by patient satisfaction, technology adoption, and preventative care initiatives, will also be weighted. The integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized care, demographic factors, and community health initiatives will all contribute to the final score.

The analysis will strive for objectivity, relying on data from credible sources and avoiding subjective opinions. The overall health score will provide a snapshot of the current health landscape in Bellingham, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This information can be used by healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies and programs that promote better health outcomes.

The final overall health score for Bellingham, MA (02019) will be presented on a scale, with a higher score indicating a healthier community. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the rationale behind the scoring system. This will allow readers to understand the basis of the assessment and to interpret the results accurately.

In conclusion, this comprehensive analysis will provide a valuable assessment of the health landscape in Bellingham, MA (02019). It will identify areas where the community excels and areas where improvements are needed. By understanding the current state of healthcare, residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders can work together to create a healthier and more vibrant community.

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, explore the power of location intelligence. Visit CartoChrome maps and discover how mapping can unlock valuable insights into healthcare access and community health trends.