02367, Plympton, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02367, Plympton, Massachusetts is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.74 percent of the residents in 02367 has some form of health insurance. 32.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.47 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 02367 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 718 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02367. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,333 health care providers accessible to residents in 02367, Plympton, Massachusetts.

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 02367, encompassing the town of Plympton, Massachusetts, requires a multifaceted approach. An 'Overall Health Score' is a complex metric, reflecting not just the presence of healthcare providers, but also the quality, accessibility, and integration of services. This analysis will delve into the key components impacting the health score, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of any health score is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Plympton, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs relative to the population, can significantly depress the overall health score. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. Publicly available data from sources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, combined with information from health insurance providers, can provide insights into the current ratio. This ratio is dynamic, influenced by factors such as physician retirements, relocation, and the influx of new residents.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires examining several factors. Patient satisfaction surveys, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences. Practices with consistently high ratings, reflecting positive patient-physician relationships, efficient operations, and comprehensive care, contribute positively to the health score. Furthermore, the accreditation status of practices, such as those certified by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), is an indicator of adherence to established quality standards.

Another crucial aspect of the overall health score is the adoption of telemedicine. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly for routine follow-ups, medication management, and mental health consultations. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, enhance accessibility, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in more rural areas. The extent of telemedicine integration within the ZIP code is a key factor in assessing the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a significant component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services is essential for addressing the growing need for mental healthcare. A high density of mental health providers, coupled with readily accessible services, such as crisis hotlines and support groups, contributes positively to the health score. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, where mental health screenings and initial interventions can be provided, is a particularly beneficial practice.

Furthermore, the overall health score is influenced by the availability of specialized medical services. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, within a reasonable geographic proximity is important. Access to these specialists reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care, improving convenience and potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and interventions. The presence of urgent care facilities and emergency medical services also contributes to the overall health score, providing immediate care for acute medical needs.

The overall health score also considers the availability of preventative care services. This includes services such as routine checkups, vaccinations, and screenings for chronic diseases. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offering comprehensive wellness programs and patient education, contribute positively to the health score. The promotion of healthy lifestyles, through community health initiatives and partnerships with local organizations, also plays a role.

In assessing the overall health score, it's also important to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. The demographics of the population within the ZIP code, including age, income levels, and education, can have a significant impact on health. Areas with higher rates of poverty and lower educational attainment may experience poorer health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health through community programs and outreach efforts can improve the overall health score.

The health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that changes over time. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, patient satisfaction scores, and telemedicine adoption rates, is essential. This ongoing assessment allows for the identification of areas for improvement and the implementation of targeted interventions to enhance the overall health of the community.

The overall health score is also influenced by the coordination of care. The extent to which healthcare providers communicate and collaborate with each other is critical for ensuring that patients receive seamless and coordinated care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and care management platforms can facilitate communication and improve care coordination. The presence of patient-centered medical homes, where a team of healthcare professionals works together to provide comprehensive care, also contributes positively to the health score.

Finally, a comprehensive analysis of the overall health score should consider the health outcomes of the population. This includes measures such as life expectancy, infant mortality rates, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. Analyzing these outcomes provides a clear picture of the overall health of the community and can help to identify areas where interventions are needed to improve health.

Understanding the health landscape within ZIP Code 02367 requires a comprehensive approach. The overall health score is a multifaceted metric, reflecting the availability, quality, and integration of healthcare services. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes, a more complete picture of the health of the community can be obtained.

To gain a deeper, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Plympton and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of providers, access to care, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike, helping to inform decisions and improve healthcare access.