02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.30 percent of the residents in 02535 has some form of health insurance. 41.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.34 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 02535 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 337 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02535. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 668 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02535 and Primary Care Availability in Chilmark**

Analyzing the overall health landscape for residents of Chilmark, Massachusetts, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within the 02535 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the prominence of specific practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric for assessing primary care access. In a geographically isolated area like Chilmark, this ratio is particularly critical. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in addressing health concerns. Determining the precise ratio necessitates data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, local hospital affiliations, and patient population estimates. The unique demographic of Chilmark, with its seasonal population fluctuations, further complicates this calculation. An accurate assessment requires factoring in both year-round residents and the influx of seasonal visitors, who also require healthcare services.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care available. This involves evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience. Accreditations and certifications from organizations like the Joint Commission indicate a commitment to quality and safety standards. Furthermore, examining the range of services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized services, helps determine the comprehensiveness of the care provided. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing clear communication, shared decision-making, and personalized care plans, tend to rank higher in overall quality.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare delivery, especially in rural and geographically isolated areas. Its adoption within the 02535 ZIP code is crucial for enhancing access to care. Telemedicine enables remote consultations, follow-up appointments, and the management of chronic conditions, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining whether local practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services available through telemedicine, and the ease of use of the platforms. Factors such as the availability of reliable internet access in the area also influence the effectiveness of telemedicine. Practices that proactively integrate telemedicine into their care models demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health and well-being. The availability of mental health services within the 02535 ZIP code is a key indicator of the healthcare ecosystem's comprehensiveness. This analysis considers the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area. It also assesses the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and access to psychiatric medications. Examining the integration of mental health services with primary care practices is also essential. Collaborative care models, where primary care physicians and mental health professionals work together, can improve the identification and treatment of mental health conditions. Assessing the affordability and accessibility of mental health services, including insurance coverage and sliding-scale fees, is also crucial.

The analysis should also consider the impact of the local hospital, if any, on the healthcare landscape. Affiliations with hospitals, the availability of specialists, and the capacity to handle emergencies are all relevant factors. The presence of community health centers and other non-profit organizations that provide healthcare services to underserved populations also contribute to the overall health score. These organizations often play a crucial role in ensuring access to care for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The analysis must account for the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the specific demographics and geographic characteristics of Chilmark.

To synthesize the information gathered, a scoring system is employed. Each category – physician-to-patient ratio, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – is assigned a score based on pre-defined criteria. These scores are then weighted to reflect their relative importance, and an overall health score is calculated. This score provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in the 02535 ZIP code. It allows for a comparative analysis with other areas and highlights areas for improvement.

The findings of this analysis can inform various stakeholders. Residents can use the information to make informed decisions about their healthcare choices. Healthcare providers can identify areas where they can improve their services and better meet the needs of the community. Policymakers can use the data to develop strategies to enhance healthcare access and quality in the area. The ultimate goal is to foster a healthier community by ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.

The complexities of assessing healthcare availability in a geographically isolated area like Chilmark necessitate a thorough and data-driven approach. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, this analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. The findings can guide residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers in their efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community.

For a deeper dive into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and a visual representation of the data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can enhance your understanding of healthcare accessibility and inform your decision-making process.