02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.89 percent of the residents in 02534 has some form of health insurance. 51.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.95 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 02534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 190 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 366 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 713 health care providers accessible to residents in 02534, Cataumet, Massachusetts.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 02534, encompassing the village of Cataumet, presents a nuanced picture, reflecting both strengths and areas needing improvement. Evaluating this area requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Cataumet, Massachusetts.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased stress on existing healthcare providers. While specific, up-to-the-minute data is constantly evolving, publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state health departments provide valuable insights. Researching these resources can reveal the current physician-to-patient ratio in 02534. A low ratio would negatively impact the overall health score.

Standout practices, those known for exceptional patient care, innovative approaches, or specialized services, significantly elevate the health score. Identifying these practices requires examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and professional accolades. Factors to consider include the range of services offered, the qualifications of the medical staff, the use of advanced technologies, and the practice’s commitment to patient satisfaction. Practices specializing in geriatric care would be particularly valuable given the demographic makeup of many coastal communities. Conversely, a lack of readily accessible specialists would lower the score.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, especially in geographically isolated areas. The ability to consult with a doctor remotely offers convenience, reduces travel time, and improves access to care for those with mobility limitations. Assessing telemedicine integration involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, the types of services available via telemedicine, and the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms. Widespread telemedicine adoption would positively influence the overall health score, while a lack of it would be detrimental.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing a wide range of mental health conditions. Evaluating mental health resource availability involves assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of support groups. A robust network of mental health resources would significantly enhance the health score, while a scarcity of such resources would be a major concern.

Primary care availability in Cataumet is directly tied to the health score. The presence of accessible and high-quality primary care physicians is fundamental to preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall population health. Assessing primary care availability requires examining the number of primary care physicians in the area, their appointment availability, their acceptance of insurance plans, and their commitment to patient-centered care. A shortage of primary care physicians or long wait times for appointments would negatively impact the health score.

To further refine the analysis, considering the specific needs of the Cataumet population is important. This includes understanding the age distribution, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and any unique health challenges faced by the community. For instance, a high proportion of elderly residents might necessitate a greater focus on geriatric care and home health services.

The evaluation of practices should also extend beyond basic metrics. The quality of care is paramount. This involves examining patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the practice's commitment to continuous improvement. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, can be an indicator of quality.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also relevant. Electronic health records (EHRs) facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and enhance patient safety. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs and utilize other digital tools, such as patient portals, would likely score higher.

The affordability of healthcare is another crucial factor. Assessing the cost of care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses, is essential for understanding healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer transparent pricing, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide financial assistance programs would contribute positively to the health score.

Community involvement is also important. Practices that actively engage with the community, through health education programs, outreach initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations, demonstrate a commitment to improving the overall health of the population. Such involvement would be viewed favorably in the assessment.

Overall, the health score for doctors in ZIP code 02534 and primary care availability in Cataumet is likely to be influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area may boast strengths in certain areas, it is also likely to face challenges common to many rural or coastal communities. A comprehensive assessment requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of standout practices, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The specific needs of the Cataumet population, including age distribution and the prevalence of chronic diseases, must also be considered.

For a more in-depth and visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in Cataumet and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, providing a clearer picture of healthcare accessibility and availability in the region.