02139, Cambridge, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02139, Cambridge, Massachusetts is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.97 percent of the residents in 02139 has some form of health insurance. 21.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.85 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 02139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,964 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 70 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02139. An estimate of 30 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,926 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,341 health care providers accessible to residents in 02139, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Cambridge, MA (02139)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the 02139 ZIP code, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians and related health resources. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the health landscape in Cambridge, MA, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The 02139 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Cambridge, Massachusetts, presents a complex healthcare environment. The presence of world-renowned institutions like Harvard University and MIT, along with a diverse population, influences the demand and supply of healthcare services. Assessing the overall health score requires a nuanced approach, considering various factors beyond just the number of physicians.

One crucial element is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute data fluctuates, the general trend in Cambridge, and specifically 02139, suggests a relatively favorable ratio compared to national averages. This is partially due to the concentration of medical professionals and teaching hospitals in the Boston area. However, this doesn't guarantee equal access. Geographic distribution within the ZIP code, insurance coverage disparities, and the specific needs of different demographic groups can create pockets of underserved populations. Therefore, a high physician-to-patient ratio alone doesn't fully reflect the health score.

Several primary care practices in 02139 stand out for their commitment to patient care and innovation. Practices affiliated with major hospital systems, such as Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA), often benefit from access to advanced technology, specialized expertise, and robust support systems. These practices frequently offer comprehensive services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and coordinated care with specialists. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys generally reflect positively on these practices, highlighting factors like physician communication, appointment availability, and overall experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the overall health score. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its impact continues to be felt. Many primary care practices in 02139 have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, those living in areas with limited transportation options, or those seeking convenience. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access, digital literacy, and the ability of physicians to provide adequate care remotely.

Mental health resources are a vital aspect of overall health, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Cambridge, with its large student population and diverse community, faces unique mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services is crucial. Practices connected to hospitals often have integrated mental health services, providing a more holistic approach to patient care. Community mental health centers and non-profit organizations also play a significant role in providing affordable and accessible mental health support. The overall effectiveness of these resources depends on factors like wait times, insurance coverage, and the cultural competency of providers.

Evaluating the overall health score requires a balanced perspective. While a high physician-to-patient ratio is a positive indicator, it must be considered alongside factors like access to care, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Furthermore, demographic factors, such as age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage, play a crucial role in shaping the health landscape.

In assessing the quality of individual practices, the presence of board-certified physicians, the use of electronic health records, and the availability of after-hours care are all important considerations. Practices that prioritize patient education, preventative care, and chronic disease management often demonstrate higher levels of patient satisfaction and better health outcomes. The integration of technology, such as patient portals and online appointment scheduling, can also contribute to a more positive patient experience.

The impact of social determinants of health, such as housing, food security, and access to transportation, cannot be ignored. These factors significantly influence health outcomes and must be considered when assessing the overall health score. Community initiatives and partnerships between healthcare providers and social service organizations can help address these challenges and improve the health of the community.

The overall health score for 02139 is, therefore, a complex metric. While the area benefits from the presence of renowned medical institutions and a relatively favorable physician-to-patient ratio, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to care, addressing mental health needs, and mitigating the impact of social determinants of health. A comprehensive assessment requires a holistic approach, considering all these factors to provide an accurate picture of the health landscape in Cambridge.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care physicians, the availability of mental health services, and the demographics of the population, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the health landscape of Cambridge, MA, and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.